Roller coaster safety: what California inspection records reveal
COACHELLA VALLEY, Calif. (KESQ) – Following a deadly roller coaster incident in Georgia, nine other rides have been temporarily closed, including Goliath at Six Flags Magic Mountain in Valencia.
The closures have raised questions about amusement ride safety and how often roller coasters are inspected.
In California, permanent roller coasters must undergo inspections by qualified safety inspectors at least once a year. State officials also review maintenance and safety records and conduct operational inspections, including unannounced checks.
Portable carnival rides, such as those at the Riverside County Fair and National Date Festival, follow separate requirements. Operators must obtain state permits and inspect and test rides before opening each day, including checks of brakes, controls and other safety equipment.
Chris Pickering, CEO of Pickering Events, which works with amusement rides at local fairs, said the investigation into the Georgia incident is an important step toward determining what happened.
Certain compliance notices for permanent rides must be available for public inspection, either near the ride or at a designated location inside the park.
News Channel 3 has submitted a public records request for inspection and compliance records for Goliath at Six Flags Magic Mountain. The station is seeking information about when the ride was last inspected and whether regulators documented any safety concerns.
Stay with News Channel 3 for the latest updates.
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