Three serious roller coaster accidents in European theme parks within weeks have claimed two lives and injured dozens. One of the victims of the recent incident at the popular Legoland in Germany – as the “Krone” now learned – is a young woman from Lower Austria. After this string of accidents, many are wondering about amusement park safety – we asked.
After two years of corona restrictions, the theme parks are currently being broken into. Also from a number of new customers, as Praterverband President Stefan Sittler-Koidl confirms: “We notice that there are also many new passengers who were not previously among our customers. They are often in a ride for the first time.”
“Roller Coasters even safer than airplanes”
The entrepreneur Prater, the fourth generation who works in the Viennese amusement park, finds the safety of the roller coasters extremely high. “With regard to passenger accidents, roller coasters are even safer than airplanes,” he says, adding: “Unfortunately, there is never 100 percent safety. Anywhere where people work and things move, accidents can happen.”
Daily maintenance is required
From his point of view, safety starts with the selection of the manufacturer who produces the ride according to the European standard EN13814. All hazards, from fire and electronics to entrapment hazards, are carefully assessed. “We have a very long list that needs to be worked through before an attraction is officially approved and can be put into use.”
After the suitability has been established, the device is checked at least once a year by the TÜV or a civil engineering unit. “Of course, our employees maintain the rides on a daily basis. It is in a company’s own interest that it is safe for guests.”
Hardly any legal requirements for staff qualification
The Prater employees are also trained in detail. Although in Austria there are no detailed legal requirements on how to qualify them. “We provide new employees with experienced mentors. Only after extensive testing can they operate the machines themselves,” says Sittler-Koidl, who runs twelve attractions and a restaurant in the Prater.
Unlike other tourism sectors, the Prater has no shortage of staff. However, he cannot confirm whether this is also the case internationally.
No “expiry date” for well-maintained tracks
Incidentally, the reliability of a ride cannot be judged by its age: “Even very old attractions are safe if they are properly maintained and wear parts are replaced regularly”, the expert cannot point to an “expiration date” for attractions.
Investigations are in full swing
In the three affected amusement parks, the investigation into the dramatic incidents is in full swing. There is much evidence that human error led to the tragedies of both accidents in Germany.
Source: Krone
I am Ida Scott, a journalist and content author with a passion for uncovering the truth. I have been writing professionally for Today Times Live since 2020 and specialize in political news. My career began when I was just 17; I had already developed a knack for research and an eye for detail which made me stand out from my peers.
