The National Occupational Health and Safety Service (NOHSS) under the Employment Ministry is undertaking an initial investigation into an amusement ride incident that took place on Sunday, September 1st, 2024.
The incident involving the MG Rocket Ride was reported to the Ministry by the ride’s owner around 3:25 PM. Minister for Employment, Productivity and Workplace Relations, Agni Deo Singh, confirmed that the OHS Team promptly arrived at the scene to determine the cause of the incident.
Upon their investigation, the NOHSS team found the cause of the incident and issued a prohibition notice to the ride owner and operator, instructing them to halt operations of the MG Rocket Ride immediately. The ride has six carts, each capable of carrying two children, and was fully loaded with 12 passengers at the time of the accident.
The investigation revealed that a turnbuckle on cart No.3 broke, causing the cart to tilt left and the rear left wing of the ride to come into contact with the ground. The turnbuckle is designed to align and secure the cart’s position. It was noted that while the turnbuckle remained intact on its mounting, the children were safely secured in their seats by seat belts, and fortunately, no injuries were reported among the riders. The seat belts successfully restrained the children during the incident, and the carts were firmly held in place by bolts and nuts, preventing dislodgment from the rotating arms.
Minister Singh stated that the investigation into the cause of the turnbuckle failure is ongoing, and the MG Rocket Ride will remain closed. He also highlighted that prior to the commencement of operations for the ongoing Hibiscus festival, the NOHSS Team conducted safety inspections, tests, and certifications of all rides.
Furthermore, the owners and operators participated in a standard operating procedures orientation on Friday, August 30th, 2024, at the Ministry of Employment Office. The NOHSS team monitored the rides closely during the festival’s first three days and will continue to maintain a strong presence throughout the festival to ensure safe operations.