Search Adaptive Manual
Table of Contents
Loading and unloading from ski lifts is a critical aspect of adaptive snowsports instruction. Proper loading procedures ensure the safety and comfort of students with disabilities while maximising their enjoyment of the skiing experience.
Lift Loading & Unloading
For all lifts, the following guidelines apply:
- Practice loading: Practice loading before you get on the lift so everyone knows their role.
- Designate one person: Designate one person to be in charge.
- Involve the student: Involve the student as much as possible.
- Use counting: Use counting to coordinate everyone’s movement both on and off the lift.
- Communication with operators: Ensure the lift operators understand what assistance you need and advise them whether you need a slow or a stop at the bottom and top of the lift. If unsure, ask the lift operator to stand by the stop button.
By following these guidelines and adapting as needed for individual students, instructors can facilitate safe and enjoyable experiences on ski lifts for individuals with disabilities, enhancing their overall skiing experience.
Lift Types
Magic Carpets
Skiers can straddle the student from behind to give them support, while snowboarders can remove their equipment to support their student. When loading stand-up riders and skiers, make sure to prevent them from falling backwards. Ensure outriggers are positioned on the moving carpet.
Platter Lifts
Straddle the student from behind with the platter either between the student’s legs or your own. Advise the operator where to place the platter. As the student’s skills increase, reduce the amount of support given and encourage them to take the platter with the aim of becoming independent. For sit-skis, straddle the ski supporting it between your legs. The platter is held in the hands of both the student and the instructor, with the student taking as much weight as they are able.
T-Bars
For sit skis, attach a short tether to the front of the sit ski seat and loop it over the T-bar. Have the student use a quick release mechanism to release the tether.
Rope Tows
Stay close to the student as possible. Reach around them to support them and hold the rope with both hands. Have the student hold the rope to assist where possible. With sit-skis, use the knees to support the student and counter the turning movement created by the pull of the rope by steering the sit-ski slightly towards the rope.
Chairlifts
Be well organised in advance, know what assistance is required, and practice in advance including countdowns. Ensure that you get a definite acknowledgment from the lift operator. Trackers should have their outriggers in the ski position at loading to prevent them from getting pulled under the chair. Sit-skiers use their outriggers in the flip-up position if they have the arm strength to push effectively. Otherwise, the outriggers need to be placed across the student’s legs out of the way.
Mountain Policy on Queue Management
Each mountain should have its preferred policy for managing disabled guests in a lift everyone else. Exceptions include very long waits and waiting on a slope.queue. Generally, it is appropriate to ask a person with a disability to wait in line with
As adaptive instructors, work with lift operators on the mountain to practise techniques so that handling clients with disabilities does not need to slow the lifts down during busy times.
