SafeWork NSW scrutinises ride safety at agricultural and country shows

SafeWork NSW has advised how it has been checking amusement rides and speaking to ride operators to help ensure safety at three recent country shows - the Barraba Show, the Newcastle Show and the Tamworth Show.

Each held from Friday 1st to Sunday 3rd March, Head of SafeWork Natasha Mann advised how SafeWork Inspectors attended location during their staging to carry out compliance inspections of all amusement rides and devices.

Mann explained “rides which are not maintained or operated properly can cause serious injuries and deaths, as we have tragically seen interstate.

“SafeWork inspected the setup of amusement rides before each show opened to the public, along with targeted verification audits on identified high-risk amusement devices like various rollercoasters.

“Inspectors were also looking for other safety issues such as non-compliant electrical installations, access in and out of the show, and the safe movement of forklifts and other vehicles around pedestrians.”

With thousands of people attending each of the Show over a busy weekend for Showmen’s Guild members, Mann noted “SafeWork Inspectors are there to enforce the safety responsibilities of the organisers, ride operators and stall holders. We want to ensure that safety is their number one priority so that everyone has a great day out.”

Amusement ride operators are responsible for implementing effective service and maintenance schedules to ensure rides are safe to use. They are also responsible for providing a safe system of work and appropriate training for their workers to operate the rides safely.

This year also saw the Tamworth Show celebrate 150 years, having been a part of Tamworth's history since the inaugural show in 1873.

Click here for further information on the SafeWork NSW website.