Fairground operator fined after rollercoaster worker dies in South Shields

Mr Cariss was working on a rollercoaster at Ocean Beach Pleasure Park when he was struck by a moving car. Credit: Health and Safety Executive

A fairground operator has been fined following a man's death weeks after suffering serious head injuries while working on a ride in South Shields.

Dean Cariss was struck by a moving car on a rollercoaster ride while daily testing and maintenance was being carried out at Ocean Beach Pleasure Park on 19 March 2023.

The 52-year-old sustained severe head injuries and as a result died in hospital 13 days later.

A Health and Safety Executive (HSE) investigation found that Premier Attractions Limited had failed to ensure the health and safety of employees. The company pleaded guilty and was fined £28,000 at South Tyneside Magistrates Court on 17 December 2024.

Mr Cariss was a step-father to three children, a grandparent to nine, and a carer for his partner Helen Wright, who described him as "bubbly and fun".

In a written statement provided to the court, she said: "He was very generous and liked to help people.

"My whole life has been turned upside down and back to front. He would move heaven and earth for me. He was a big personality and I miss the fun and laughter. Silence is deafening when I am in the house on my own.

"Everybody fell in love with him when they met him. There was no serious side, just laughter and fun."

The investigation by HSE found that a suitable and sufficient risk assessment had not been carried out and proper controls had not been employed to prevent employees accessing dangerous areas whilst the ride was operating.

Premier Attractions Limited of Little Hulton, Manchester, pleaded guilty to failing to comply with section 2(1) of The Health and Safety at Work etc Act 1974. They were fined £28,000 and ordered to pay £5,976 costs.

HSE Inspector William Gilroy said: "This tragic incident led to the avoidable death of a caring, family man.

"Dean’s death could easily have been prevented if his employer had acted to identify and manage the risks involved, and to put a safe system of work in place.

"Companies should be aware that HSE will not hesitate to take appropriate enforcement action against those who fall below the required standards."

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