Ski Lift Operations Daily Checklist
As ski areas open for the season, lift operators and supervisors return to one of the most procedure-driven jobs in hospitality. Lifts must be inspected, tested and staffed correctly every day, and conditions on a mountain change quickly. This checklist covers the operational routine around lift operations; the technical inspections themselves must follow the manufacturer's procedures, your regulator's requirements and your area's operating manual.
Before the Season
- Confirm all lift staff are trained and signed off for their positions
- Review operating procedures, evacuation plans and communication protocols
- Confirm required inspections and certifications are complete
- Check radios, signage and maze ropes
Daily Pre-Opening
- Check the weather forecast, especially wind and lightning risk
- Complete the lift's daily inspection according to the operating manual
- Run the lift empty and test stops and communication
- Clear snow and ice from ramps, loading and unloading areas
- Set mazes and signage
- Brief operators: conditions, staffing, any restrictions
Loading and Unloading
- Staff each station as required
- Help guests who need assistance, including children and beginners
- Keep the loading area clear and well groomed
- Slow or stop the lift whenever needed
During Operations
- Monitor wind and weather and follow hold or closure procedures
- Keep radio contact between stations and supervisors
- Log every stop, incident and guest assistance
- Rotate staff to manage cold exposure
Closing
- Sweep the lift: confirm no guests remain on the line
- Follow shutdown procedures
- Secure stations and equipment
- Complete daily logs
- Report maintenance needs
Communication
- Use clear, standard radio language
- Know who has authority to stop or close a lift
- Communicate closures to guest services and patrol promptly
Staff working outside all day need proper cold-weather precautions; see how to keep outdoor crews safe in cold weather. For the rental shop at the base, see the ski and snowboard rental shop daily checklist.
How MyTeamTasks Helps
Mountain operations involve many lifts and many seasonal staff. In MyTeamTasks, pre-opening, operating and closing routines are checklists per lift, weather readings and stop logs are text tasks, and supervisors can see which lifts completed their checks before loading the first guests.
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