Instructions: 

Read the following article and respond to the questions below. You may respond with text
or attachment. (30 points)
Theme parks are considered a staple family attraction worldwide, known best for their rides and
rollercoasters that appeal to thrill-seeking children and adults alike. Its success and profitability
are maintained by installing more daring rides and appealing to popular cultural figures and
franchises. However, due to the nature of theme park rides, the results can be incredibly serious
when something goes wrong, and the stakes for theme park managers in ensuring the safety of
their facilities are very high. Over the years, failure to comply with health and safety regulations,
poor management systems, and mechanical defects have led to unfortunate incidents on
various rides and rollercoasters, resulting in serious consequences.
In 2005, an incident on the Smiler ride at Alton Towers caused by the failure of a test carriage
that collided with a carriage carrying 16 people led to serious injuries, prosecution, and a
£5million fine to the operating company, Merlin Attractions Operations Ltd.
In 1972, a mechanical failure on the Big Dipper at the Battersea Funfair caused a collision in
which five (5) children were killed and more injured. The fair closed down two (2) years later
due to the loss of visitors and reputation.
Therefore, it is of the highest importance that theme park managers take every precaution to
ensure full compliance with health and safety regulations (the Health, Safety, and Environment
[HSE] provides a wealth of information on the responsibilities and legal obligations).
A strong health and safety management framework to deal with the safety of a theme park’s
rides and attractions will help theme park operators stay compliant with the relevant legislation
and reduce the risk of failure.
Source: Duff, P. (2019, May 24). Theme park safety – the risk of failure. Notify. Retrieved
November 17, 2021, from https://www.notifytechnology.com/insights/theme-park-safety/
 
Discussion Questions:

1. What risks are commonly present in the incidents discussed in the article? Discuss your answer.

2. How can you apply the risk management process to prevent these scenarios from occurring? Use the
template below.