Minister for Employment, Productivity and Industrial Relations Agni Deo Singh confirms that the ferris wheel, which was involved in the tragic accident at Fiji Showcase yesterday, where a 21-year-old woman passed away and 2 others are admitted in serious condition at the CWM Hospital, will no longer be permitted to operate.
The Minister and the National Occupational Health and Safety Service Inspectorates are currently conducting a preliminary investigation.
Singh says the accident was reported to the Ministry yesterday afternoon, and upon interviewing witnesses and the amusement ride owner, the accident involved 3 people who boarded the 12-seater ferris wheel yesterday afternoon.
He says investigations continued today with the Ministry’s National OHS Service, together with the Police, to ascertain the cause of the accident including the mechanical components of the rides.
He would like to clarify that prior to any amusement ride operation, the National OHS Service conducts OHS statutory inspections and approval to operate is issued before any operation.
The Minister says the incident has resulted in the National OHS Service issuing a prohibition notice for the ferris wheel until such time, the full investigations are completed.
Singh further highlighted that all amusement rides in operation at the Vodafone Arena will undergo a retest to ensure the safe operation of the rides henceforth, including the health and safety of the members of the public.
He adds all ride owners, operators, and organizers will undergo another round of briefing and awareness training prior to any approval being granted.
Deo says this is to ensure that the organizers, ride owners and operators are aware of their responsibilities, especially on safe operational procedures are maintained.
He says the National OHS service as per practice will conduct monitoring of all ride operations for the duration of Fiji Showcase.
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