Premier Attractions Fined £28,000 After Death

Dean Cariss, a 52-year-old ride operator, died after being struck by a moving car on a rollercoaster at Ocean Beach Pleasure Park in South Shields on March 19, 2023, while conducting daily maintenance. Despite receiving emergency medical attention, he succumbed to his injuries 13 days later. An investigation by the Health and Safety Executive (HSE) revealed that Premier Attractions Limited failed to ensure employee safety, lacking adequate risk assessments and safety controls, leading to the company pleading guilty and receiving a £28,000 fine. Cariss's partner, Helen Wright, described him as a loving grandfather and generous individual whose death has left a profound impact on their family. HSE Inspector William Gilroy emphasized that the incident was avoidable and highlighted the need for companies to prioritize safety measures. The company was also ordered to pay additional costs of £5,976.