DES MOINES – Staff from the Iowa Department of Inspections, Appeals, and Licensing (DIAL) are conducting inspections of food stands, games, and Midway rides at the Iowa State Fair.
Yesterday, staff from DIAL's Social and Charitable Gambling Unit reviewed the operations of all amusement concession games at the fair to verify the games are appropriately licensed and conducted in a fair and honest manner. Games must also be checked to ensure that an average person could perform under the game rules, and that the object of each game is attainable.
Earlier this week, food safety specialists from DIAL’s Food and Consumer Safety Bureau began inspecting food vendors and will continue to make sure that all food items are prepared and served in accordance with Iowa’s food safety laws for the entirety of the fair. Food inspectors will also respond to food safety concerns expressed by fairgoers.
Personnel from DIAL’s Building and Construction Division have been inspecting sections of the state fair amusement rides before they were assembled since July 30, 2023. Inspectors will check the rides daily for correct blocking and fencing distances used to keep riders safe from the machinery. In addition to daily checks, the inspectors will also make sure the ride operators are conducting their own inspections of the rides. The division is responsible for licensing and regulating elevators, conveyances, boilers, pressure vessels, and amusement rides across Iowa.
“When it comes to the Iowa State Fair, nothing compares. DIAL’s role is to ensure the Fair maintains its excellent reputation of safety and fairness. Our team of dedicated employees works in partnership with hundreds of vendors to ensure the Fair is a success.”