Dropped Object Survey UAE | Rope Access Inspection Experts

Dropped Object Survey and Visual Inspection at a Theme Park’s Facility in Dubai

AIMMS Group was commissioned to conduct a critical safety inspection at a major theme park in Dubai. The primary objective was to identify and mitigate potential dropped object hazards across suspended rides and fixtures located at high elevations.

This project highlights AIMMS Group’s ability to adapt its Rope Access expertise—traditionally applied in Marine and Oil & Gas environments—to a public entertainment setting, ensuring the same uncompromising standards of safety and precision.

Project Overview

• Location: Theme Park – Dubai

• Scope: Dropped Object Survey & Visual Inspection by Rope Access

• Team Composition:

  • 1 × IRATA Level 3 Supervisor

  • 2 × IRATA Level 2 Rope Access Technicians

  • 3 × IRATA Level 1 Rope Access Technicians

• Duration: 3 Months

• Working Hours: 9:30 PM – 6:00 AM (non-operational hours)

• Total Area: 2.5 km² (5 themed zones, approx. 85 rides)

Why Dropped Objects are a Critical Concern

In environments with complex overhead structures like those found in large theme parks, a dropped object is not just a potential hazard—it’s a critical safety risk. Even a small bolt or decorative fitting falling from a height of 35–50 meters can cause severe injury or equipment damage.

The themed zone featured large, suspended props such as unicycles, gliders, lighting rigs, and projectors. A single unsecured connection point could pose a serious threat in an area where over 5,000 visitors walk daily—many without any PPE. AIMMS Group’s task was to ensure every single element above these public zones was secure, verified, and compliant with safety standards.

Engineering Methodology & Technical Execution

Our inspection approach combined precision engineering, visual analysis, and rope access expertise to achieve a zero-defects outcome.

 1. Dropped Object Survey (DROPS)

AIMMS implemented a systematic identification and mitigation process for potential falling object hazards.

• Verified primary, secondary, and tertiary securing systems.

• Used a DROPS Calculator for quantitative risk assessment.

• Created a comprehensive hazard register aligned with DROPS Reliable Securing Rev. 04 standards.

• Prepared a custom checklist for the client, as no pre-existing checklist was available.

2. Closed Visual Inspection (CVI)

A 100% direct visual inspection was carried out on all critical fixtures—wire rope slings, shackles, bolts, welded joints, and support systems.

• Inspections performed by ASNT Level II Certified Inspectors.

• Acceptance criteria aligned with ASME B30.9 and relevant DROPS standards.

• Detailed photographic documentation and inspection logs provided for each item.

Rope Access Operations

The entire inspection was executed using IRATA-certified Rope Access techniques, providing a safe, efficient, and non-intrusive method to access challenging areas.

A 6-man team—led by a Level 3 Supervisor, supported by Level 2 and Level 1 Technicians—was mobilized for this three-month operation. Rope systems were designed and installed to allow direct physical inspection without the need for scaffolding or heavy access equipment.

Due to limited accessibility, the Rope Access technique was utilized to reach complex angles and reach safely. This approach allowed the team to conduct close visual examinations near fragile equipment such as ride sensors and overhead projectors—both of which were designated as non-contact zones to avoid accidental activation or damage.

Work was conducted strictly during non-operational night hours (9:30 PM – 6:00 AM) to ensure public safety. Each morning, all rope systems and safety gear were fully removed before park operations resumed, maintaining the integrity of visitor areas and minimizing disruption.

This method not only ensured 100% IRATA compliance and zero incidents, but also demonstrated the unmatched versatility of rope access in complex, public-facing environments where traditional scaffolding was impractical.

 Rope Access: The Smart Alternative to Scaffolding

Operational Limitations

• Strict Non-Contact Zones: Certain areas, including ride sensors and projectors, could not be physically touched to avoid triggering or damaging sensitive systems.

• Operational Timings: Work was limited to night shifts (9:30 PM – 6:00 AM); all rope access systems had to be removed before park reopening each morning.

• Public Interface: With thousands of daily visitors during operating hours, all inspection activities were carried out to prevent even the smallest risk of object displacement or tool drop.

Project Challenges

This project represented a unique challenge for AIMMS Group. Having conducted numerous DROPS surveys in the Marine and Oil & Gas sectors, this was the first deployment in a public theme park setting, requiring a higher level of risk sensitivity and coordination.

The combination of large suspended props, fragile electronic systems, and public safety considerations demanded meticulous planning, exceptional rope access skill, and continuous supervision.

Results & Recommendations

The project was successfully completed with:

·  Zero Defects Identified

·  Zero Safety Incidents

·  100% Compliance with AIMMS and client safety standards

 Recommendations provided to the client included:

• Conduct DROPS & Visual Inspections every 6 months.

• Regularly monitor corrosion-prone components (wire slings, shackles, and bolts).

• Replace older cable ties with mechanical fasteners.

• Continue utilizing rope access for future maintenance and inspections due to its efficiency and low operational impact.

Conclusion

The Dropped Object Survey & Visual Inspection at a major theme park in Dubai underscores AIMMS Group’s ability to deliver engineering-grade safety inspections in non-industrial, high-traffic environments. By integrating IRATA-certified Rope Access methods with ASNT-certified inspection protocols, AIMMS ensured the safety, compliance, and operational reliability of one of Dubai’s most dynamic entertainment attractions.