Operators of Coney Beach amusement park have been fined after a two-year-old boy fell through a gap in ride perimeter fencing.
The child fell through a gap in safety fencing – surrounding the ‘Red Baron’ aeroplane-type flat ride at the Welsh park – left when some panels were removed for painting.
He sustained injuries to the face and head, and was kept in hospital for 24 hours for observation but sustained no long-term injuries.
The incident occurred at the Porthcawl-based park on 25 March 2012 and the subsequent judicial trial at Bridgend Magistrates’ Court concluded yesterday.
Operating company C Patrick Evans Entertainments Ltd was fined £2,500 and ordered to pay £7,900 in costs after pleading guilty to breaching section 3(1) of the Health and Safety at Work etc Act 1974.
Outside court, Health and Safety Executive inspector Catherine Toozer was quoted as saying:
“Fairground rides are large complex machines which have the power to seriously injure or even cause death if not managed properly.
“It is utterly vital that those in control make sure fencing is up to the job of keeping children, and others who may not appreciate the risks, away from them when running.
“The ride owner has a duty to ensure that all fencing provided is maintained and kept in an efficient state of repair at all times.”