The National Occupational Health and Safety Service (NOHSS) under the Employment Ministry is launching a preliminary investigation into an amusement ride incident that took place on Sunday, September 1, 2024. The incident involved the MG Rocket Ride, which was reported to the Ministry by the ride’s owner at approximately 3:25 PM.
Agni Deo Singh, the Minister for Employment, Productivity, and Workplace Relations, stated that the OHS Team was dispatched to the site after the report to determine the incident’s cause.
The investigation revealed that a turnbuckle on cart No.3 of the MG Rocket Ride malfunctioned, causing the cart to tilt left and the rear left side of the rocket wing to make contact with the ground. The turnbuckle is a crucial component designed to align and secure the cart’s position.
It was noted that the turnbuckle on cart No.3 remained intact, and all children strapped in by seat belts were unharmed during the incident. Singh emphasized that the seat belts effectively restrained the passengers, and the carts are securely attached by bolts and nuts, preventing them from dislodging during operation.
The cause of the turnbuckle failure is still under investigation, and the MG Rocket Ride will remain closed until further notice. Singh also mentioned that before the amusement rides were opened for the week-long Hibiscus festival, the NOHSS team conducted thorough occupational health and safety inspections, testing, and certification of all rides.
Prior to the festival, ride owners and operators participated in a standard operating procedures orientation at the Ministry of Employment Office on August 30, 2024. The NOHSS team has been monitoring the rides throughout the festival and will continue to ensure their safe operation.