Focus on safety at Melbourne Royal Show

While crowds have been experiencing fun, discovery and excitement at the 2014 Melbourne Royal Show, in the wake of the recent fatality at the Royal Adelaide Show, organisers are assuring showgoers that all amusement rides are undergoing rigorous safety checks.

Prior to opening last Saturday (20th September), each ride underwent two separate inspections by electricians and specialist structural engineers who check restraints and the machinery stability. Ride operators are also be required to submit their maintenance logs by 8am each day, or risk being shut down.

In addition, up to eight safety wardens, as well as two WorkCover inspectors, are present in the amusement ride area, as well as WorkSafe inspectors. CCTV cameras are also trained on rides and monitored 24 hours a day.

Commenting on the ride inspection regime, Royal Agricultural Society of Victoria Chief Executive Mark O'Sullivan stated "the safety of showgoers is paramount, there is no doubt about that."

With carnival ride safety in the spotlight after the death of a child riding the Airmaxx 360 at the Royal Adelaide Show, O'Sullivan told local media that anyone who felt unsafe on a ride should report their concerns to the ride operators and the Show's own customer service staff.

The Airmaxx 360 had not been scheduled to be present at the Melbourne Royal Show.

Following the incident at the Royal Adelaide Show, the Australian Amusement, Leisure and Recreation Association (AALARA) has been actively engaging with all state based safety regulators to facilitate the sharing of information between regulators and industry.

As a result, AALARA is highlighting a series of tips that should assist businesses meet their obligations:

• Know the limitations of your ride, including the restraint systems, and have documented operating procedures so you stay within them. Being documented prevents loss of awareness of the limitations over time and assists in providing consistent training.
• Train your operators and attendants in the procedures and maintain a training log to ensure all staff remain up to date.
• Provide supervision to check operators and attendants are following the operating procedures, including adjustments and checks on restraints.
• Provide appropriate breaks and rotation for operators and attendants to keep them alert and focused.
• Maintain the ride to keep it in safe condition.

AALARA has also urged that members "use the unfortunate incident in Adelaide as a prompt to review your ride's restraint systems, and any associated size or age restrictions, procedures and to provide refresher training for your operators and attendants."

For more information regarding ride safety obligations contact AALARA on 1800 118 123, E: info@aalara.com.au