Key Takeaways
- Three men fell from a ferris wheel at the Rolling Meadow Festival in Christchurch after being warned to stop swinging their bucket.
- Two of the men were seriously injured and taken to hospital.
- The operator of the ride, Event Hire, stated that the men were warned to stop swinging the bucket as it was against safety rules and dangerous.
- The incident is under investigation by WorkSafe, which has issued a prohibition notice preventing the use of the ferris wheel until an engineering expert has investigated and reported back.
- The safety of riders and the public is the "absolute priority" of the ride operator, according to the company’s owner.
Introduction to the Incident
The men fell from a ferris wheel after being warned to stop swinging the bucket (file image). A serious incident occurred at the Rolling Meadow Festival in Christchurch on New Year’s Day, when three men fell from a ferris wheel after being warned to stop swinging their bucket. The incident happened at around 2am, and two of the men were seriously injured as a result. According to the operator of the ride, Event Hire, the men had been warned to stop swinging the bucket as it was against safety rules and posed a danger to themselves and others.
The Incident Unfolds
During the ride, the operator observed the three men swinging the bucket they were sitting in and immediately told them to stop. However, despite the warning, the men continued to swing the bucket, which eventually tipped and caused them to fall out. The operator had begun the process of stopping the ride and safely unloading all occupants when the incident occurred. Fortunately, qualified medical personnel were already onsite and were able to provide prompt treatment to the men before two of them were taken to hospital for further assessment.
Response from the Ride Operator
The owner of Event Hire, Phil Anderson, stated that the safety of riders and the public is the company’s "absolute priority". He emphasized that the rides operate under clearly displayed safety rules and are overseen by trained staff, including measures to ensure patrons are fit to participate. Anderson also noted that the company will not be providing further comment on the incident at this time, as it is currently under investigation. The company’s statement highlights the importance of safety protocols and the measures that are in place to prevent such incidents from occurring.
Investigation and Prohibition Notice
A WorkSafe spokesperson confirmed that the department has issued a prohibition notice, which prevents the use of the ferris wheel until an engineering expert has fully investigated and reported back to the device owner, Event Hire. The notice also requires a copy of the engineer’s report to be provided to WorkSafe. This measure is a standard procedure in such incidents, and it ensures that the ride is safe for use before it is allowed to operate again. The investigation will likely examine the circumstances surrounding the incident, including the actions of the ride operator and the men involved, to determine the cause of the accident and identify any areas for improvement.
Importance of Safety Protocols
The incident highlights the importance of safety protocols and the need for ride operators to ensure that patrons follow safety rules and guidelines. The fact that the men were warned to stop swinging the bucket but failed to comply suggests that there may have been a lack of understanding or disregard for the safety rules. The incident also underscores the need for ride operators to have robust safety measures in place, including trained staff and emergency response plans. By prioritizing safety, ride operators can minimize the risk of accidents and ensure that patrons have a safe and enjoyable experience.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the incident at the Rolling Meadow Festival in Christchurch is a reminder of the importance of safety protocols and the need for ride operators to prioritize the safety of their patrons. The investigation into the incident will likely provide valuable insights into the causes of the accident and identify areas for improvement. As the ride operator, Event Hire, has stated, the safety of riders and the public is their "absolute priority", and it is essential that all ride operators take a similar approach to ensure that such incidents are prevented in the future. By learning from this incident, we can work towards creating a safer and more enjoyable experience for everyone involved.