The National Occupational Health and Safety Services (NOHSS) from the Ministry of Employment will be present at the Hibiscus Festival to ensure the safety of all amusement rides.
Employment Minister Agni Deo Singh announced that the OHS team had conducted an on-site investigation following a report about an incident that occurred last Sunday. During the investigation, the NOHSS identified the reason for the incident and issued a prohibition notice to the ride owner and operator, requiring the immediate cessation of the MG rocket ride’s operations.
The MG rocket ride, which consists of six carts capable of carrying two children each, was fully loaded with 12 passengers when the accident happened. A turnbuckle on one of the carts broke, causing the cart to tilt and the rear left side of the rocket wing to scrape against the ground.
Minister Singh explained that the turnbuckle’s role was to keep the carts aligned and in place. He noted that the turnbuckle on cart number three remained intact and the children were securely fastened by seat belts during the incident. Fortunately, there were no injuries reported among the riders.
He emphasized that the seat belts effectively restrained the passengers, and the carts are securely attached to the rotating arms using two bolts and nuts, preventing them from dislodging. The investigation into the cause of the turnbuckle failure is ongoing, and the MG rocket ride will stay closed.
Minister Singh assured that prior to the operation of amusement rides, the NOHSS team conducts thorough inspections to test and certify them. He mentioned that ride owners and operators participated in an orientation covering standard operating procedures on August 30.
In response to the incident, Opposition MP Virendra Lal criticized the OHS Department for inadequate oversight. He urged for stronger legislation governing amusement rides to enhance safety and prevent injuries. He also referenced a tragic Ferris wheel accident at the Fiji Showcase last year, which resulted in the death of a young woman, calling for a prompt review of safety protocols and legislation regarding amusement rides.
Lal stressed the importance of public safety and expressed hope that the government would provide a detailed report on measures being implemented to avoid similar incidents in the future.