Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka has announced a temporary suspension of operations for Ferris wheel operators, effective immediately, in response to an incident at the Wairiki Sevens tournament in Taveuni involving a malfunctioning 12-seater Ferris wheel. This decision follows extensive discussions between the Prime Minister’s office and the Ministry of Employment, Productivity, and Workplace Relations.
According to the Ministry of Employment, patrons were required to exit the Ferris wheel with assistance from operators and bystanders due to technical issues. Fortunately, there were no reported injuries or fatalities from the incident. The National Occupational Health and Safety Service (NOHSS) will conduct a comprehensive investigation to determine the circumstances behind the malfunction, with an update on findings expected in due course.
In light of this occurrence, the NOHSS has issued a prohibition notice halting all Ferris wheel operations until further notice. Opposition MP Virendra Lal has emphasized the need for stricter regulations governing Ferris wheel operations, noting that such incidents have occurred multiple times over the past two years. He has called for more robust legislation to prevent similar events from happening in the future.
This proactive approach by the government aims to ensure public safety and enhance regulatory measures within the amusement ride industry, reflecting a commitment to the well-being of the community. Moving forward, the thorough investigation and potential reforms could lead to improved safety standards and greater confidence among patrons.
In summary, the suspension of Ferris wheel operations highlights the importance of safety measures and regulatory oversight in the amusement industry, paving the way for necessary improvements that could prevent future incidents.
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