The safety of all participants, staff, and spectators is our highest priority. Adherence to these rules is mandatory for participation in the SD 60 GoKart Rodeo.

Technical Fabrication Inspection: The Safety Gateway (A-PASS)

The Technical Fabrication Inspection is a strict Pass/Fail event. Any kart failing to meet these critical safety standards will not be allowed to participate in any driving event until the issue is fixed and the kart is re-inspected. Re-inspection requires the signature of a Pit Supervisor.

Mandatory A-PASS Checklist Highlights:

• Restraint System (Manual Karts): A functional, secure safety harness or robust lap belt system must be properly mounted and utilized by the driver at all times.

• Roll Cage/Structure (Manual Karts): The roll cage must be fully welded, structurally sound, and provide adequate clearance around the driver's helmet when seated.

• Steering Linkage: Steering components must be tightly secured. There must be no excessive slack or play in the steering wheel or linkage.

• Brakes: The braking system must be functional and capable of locking all driven wheels at low speed.

• E-Stop/Override (All Karts): A single, easily accessible Emergency Kill Switch must be present to instantly cut power to the drive system. Autonomous Karts must also demonstrate remote control override.

• Fluids/Fuel: All fuel lines, tanks, and fluid reservoirs must be secure and free of visible leaks.

• Wheel Security: All wheels must be securely fastened, utilizing locking nuts or cotter pins to prevent accidental detachment.

• Ballast Security (Manual Karts): Any non-structural weight added to the kart must be securely bolted or welded to the chassis. Loose weights are prohibited.

Pit Area and General Safety Rules

Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)

• In the Pit/Fabrication Area: Safety glasses (Z87+ rated) and hearing protection (earplugs or earmuffs) are mandatory for all students and staff at all times. Closed-toe leather shoes (or leather shoe covers) and long pants are required for fabrication.

• On the Track: Drivers must wear a full-face helmet (Snell or DOT rated), gloves, long pants, and a long-sleeve shirt or jacket while operating a kart.

Hot Work and Tool Management

• Hot Work Zone: No grinding, welding, or cutting is permitted within the general Pit Area. All hot work must be performed at the designated Mobile Repair Unit location under the constant, direct supervision of the Staff Advisor.

• Tools: All tools and equipment must be safely stored when not in use.

Power & Generator Safety

• NO Utility Power: The event is held in a field and no utility wall power is available. Teams are responsible for bringing their own power (generator).

• Generator Placement: All generators must be placed in the designated "Power Zone" on the periphery of the pits. Running long extension cords across walkways is prohibited.

On-Track Safety and Driving Rules

Driver Conduct (Manual Karts)

• Speed Limit: All karts must be pushed or driven at a walking pace only in the Pit Area and staging lanes. This will be strictly enforced.

• Reckless Driving: Reckless driving, intentional contact with other karts or barriers, and ignoring a safety flag will result in immediate disqualification.

Autonomous Kart Safety

• Safety Zone: During autonomous trials, all non-essential personnel must remain outside the clearly marked Autonomous Safety Zone barrier.

• Staff Override: The Staff Advisor must be prepared to hit the remote or manual E-Stop immediately if the kart malfunctions or leaves the designated track area.

Flag System

• Red Flag: Stop immediately and safely.

• Yellow Flag: Caution; slow down and hold position.

• Checkered Flag: End of the trial/run.

Forms and Downloads

• A-PASS Inspection Sheet: Download the PDF Form

• Official Rule Book: This document contains the full set of regulations and guidelines.