RR524 - A review of the design review process for fairground rides
This report reviews the current usage of the 'design review' process in the UK fairground industry. Its influence in assuring the safety of rides has been evaluated, considering background perspectives from normal practice in other industries.
The UK framework and practice for fairground safety has been developed over a number of decades, which includes the involvement of a number of regulatory bodies and other organisations. Various guidance documents and publications are available, and these have been used as the baseline measure of current practice. Liaison has been established with a number of ride owners and design reviewers to confirm how this is applied in practice.
The review has focused on two areas of the design review: the structural integrity of the ride and the risk assessment process. Particular attention has been concentrated on the structural aspects, since operating experience has shown these to be the largest current contributor to significant incidents on fairground rides.
A number of key points and recommendations have been raised throughout this report. The key points arising from this review have been assembled in summary form in the Conclusions of this report with respect to the following aspects of the design review.
- Safety Framework
- Design Review
- Structural Fatigue
- Inspection and Maintenance for Fatigue
- Risk Assessment
- Communication
This report and the work it describes were funded by the Health and Safety Executive (HSE). Its contents, including any opinions and/or conclusions expressed, are those of the authors alone and do not necessarily reflect HSE policy.
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