Subd. 1. Scope.

For the purposes of this chapter, the terms defined in this section have the meanings given them.

Subd. 2. Amusement ride.

"Amusement ride" means a mechanical device that carries or conveys passengers along, around, or over a fixed or restricted route or course for the purpose of giving its passengers amusement, pleasure, thrills, or excitement. "Amusement ride" does not include:

1. (1) a coin-operated ride that is manually, mechanically, or electrically operated and customarily placed in a public location and that does not normally require the supervision or services of an operator; or
2. (2) nonmechanized playground equipment, including but not limited to swings, seesaws, stationary spring-mounted animal features, rider-propelled merry-go-rounds, climbers, playground slides, trampolines, and physical fitness devices.

Subd. 3. Commissioner.

"Commissioner" means the commissioner of labor and industry.

Subd. 4. Operator.

"Operator" means a person who owns an amusement ride.