Amusement ride operators to undergo Ekka safety audits

Workplace Health and Safety Queensland (WHSQ) is working with amusement ride operators to ensure thrill-seekers and other patrons have a fun and safe trip to this year’s Ekka.

Queensland Office of Fair and Safe Work head Simon Blackwood said WHSQ inspectors would audit all amusement rides and equipment before the opening of the annaul agricultural show tomorrow (8th August).

Dr Blackwood stated “WHSQ has been working with industry in the lead up to all Queensland regional shows this year to guarantee the safety of all amusement rides as part of an annual safety audit.

"The audits cover a number of aspects including the installation of the rides, maintenance records, electrical components, restraints, noise levels, crowd control and operational procedures.

"The Royal Queensland Show otherwise known as the Ekka is a fun time for families, children in particular, and their safety is paramount.

"But even the best rides can hold potential dangers for both thrill-seekers and the workers operating them if not properly maintained and inspected.

"That's why WHSQ inspectors work closely with the Ekka's own safety officers over the 10 days of the show, as well as industry, to monitor compliance with safety standards, in particular the amusement rides.

"The Ekka inspections are part of WHSQ's annual state-wide audit of amusement rides, which not only includes major rural and regional shows as well as smaller shows, community fairs, fetes and theme parks.

"WHSQ works with the RNA, the Showmen's Guild of Australia, the Australian Amusement and Leisure and Recreation Association, the Australian Amusements Association and showground operators to ensure they understand and meet their obligations to keep patrons and workers safe.

“The focus in recent years on ride restraints, which have been responsible for half of all incidents at times, has improved safety generally.”

There were 652 audits by WHSQ inspectors during 2013, with 32 improvement notices and just 15 prohibition notices across the state.

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