In the midst of the investigation into how the tragedy in which four people were killed at Dreamworld could have happened, the Australian Workers Union claims that serious safety concerns have been raised since at least last April. A Queensland safety inspector goes even further, claiming he told Dreamworld about serious issues with park safety four years ago.
The AWU, which reportedly represents a large percentage of employees at Dreamworld, says that it had made representations to park management “about issues our members have regarding the operation and maintenance of various equipment, including rides.”
According to News Corp, Dreamworld owner Ardent Leisure sought to block 143 pages of critical information about ride safety and inspections – which included the fact that Thunder River Rapids, the ride involved in the fatal accident, was “not fit for service”.
The AMU allegedly demanded this information in order to carry our regulatory activities within the park, but it was denied. Dreamworld argued that it did not want the AMU to use this information as political leverage in negotiations.
A Queensland safety inspector, Shaun Langdon, told The Australian that he told staff he would not recommend paying customers use many of the park’s attractions, such was the state of maintenance. “I told [staff] they were taking a risk and if I was a paying customer I wouldn’t go on any rides, the condition they were in.”
Thunder River Rapids was reportedly serviced and inspected on the 29th of September and found to be structurally and mechanically sound. Forensic teams are currently investigating what caused the accident, and Dreamworld maintains that security certifications are up to date.
Source: The Australian.
Photo: Getty Images.
