A temporary ban on all ferris wheel rides has been enforced until further notice, prioritizing public safety. This decision was announced by Agni Deo Singh, Minister for Employment, Productivity and Workplace, following in-depth discussions with senior ministry officials.
The move comes after a concerning incident in Taveuni during the Wairiki Sevens, where a ferris wheel experienced a mechanical failure while riders were on board. Video footage circulated on social media depicted smoke coming from the ferris wheel’s engine, with onlookers intervening to stop the ride so that everyone could exit safely. Fortunately, all patrons disembarked without injury.
Minister Singh stated that the Occupational Health and Safety (OHS) team has conducted an inspection of the ferris wheel, and an investigation has been launched to determine the cause of the malfunction. He emphasized that the preliminary report will shed light on how the engine failure occurred. Concerns have been raised about the age and maintenance practices of amusement ride operations, which may contribute to such incidents.
It is essential for amusement ride operators to invest in regular maintenance and ensure the safety of their equipment to prevent similar occurrences in the future. This incident underscores the importance of vigilance in safety protocols to protect patrons and foster trust in public entertainment venues.
In light of this situation, the temporary ban serves as a proactive measure to safeguard public welfare, demonstrating a commitment to ensuring safer amusement experiences. It is hoped that the forthcoming investigation will lead to improvements in safety standards across all amusement rides.
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