What Causes a Funfair Ride to Stop?

The demand for higher and faster thrills has prompted designers to innovate. With advancements in modern design and technology, funfair rides and attractions have become more thrilling yet complex. Most modern funfair rides are equipped with multiple safety systems designed to halt operations if anything unusual is detected. Whether it's an unexpected weight distribution, a door that hasn't closed properly, or even a sensor malfunction, these mechanisms prioritise rider safety above all else.

If the computer control system detects any irregularities, or if a signal from one of the many sensors goes astray, it immediately puts the ride into Safe Mode. Even a minor issue like a loose connection can cause an intermittent fault. This is the most common reason funfair rides stop.

Emergency stops can have varied effects on different rides. For some, hitting the emergency stop cuts the power altogether. With roller coasters, while an emergency stop can close all brakes and deactivate the lift and launch mechanisms, the cars on the track can't stop until they encounter these systems.

Sometimes, a ride may be stopped to perform a routine maintenance check. These checks ensure that every component is working as it should. If operators notice anything unusual or if a specific part is due for inspection, they may halt the ride to take a closer look.

Electrical problems can also lead to funfair rides stopping. Just like any other electrical equipment, a sudden power outage can cause a funfair ride to stop. Backup generators often kick in to ensure the ride can be safely brought to its docking position, ensuring the safety of its passengers.

There are instances where the ride operator may choose to stop the ride. This could be due to a perceived issue, an external disturbance, or even if a rider's behaviour poses a risk to themselves or others. High winds, lightning, heavy rain, or even excessive heat can also be a reason to pause or even halt a ride, as these can affect the ride's functionality or the safety of its passengers.

Funfair rides should also be equipped with an emergency stop button. This can be used by operators or maintenance staff if they perceive an immediate threat or need to halt the ride for any urgent reason.

Like all machines, funfair rides can sometimes experience mechanical issues, ranging from minor malfunctions to significant breakdowns. Regular funfair ride maintenance helps reduce these occurrences, but unexpected halts can still happen.

Sometimes, even things like lost personal items (such as a hat or a balloon) entering a funfair ride's zone, can trigger sensors to stop the ride.

Funfair Ride Stop Types

There are two different 'categories' of funfair ride stoppages, described as follows:

Category 0 Stop: This is akin to 'pulling the plug' on the funfair ride. All energy, including stored energy, is removed, bringing the ride to a halt as swiftly as possible.
Category 1 Stop: Here, the fairground ride is brought to a controlled stop by its system. Once halted, it may be followed by a Category 0 stop, disconnecting the power. Depending on the ride, there might be minimal difference between the two categories. However, Category 1 is typically intended to be be more efficient and safer.

Not all funfair ride stoppages necessitate a complete shutdown. Certain situations may call for only specific parts of the machinery to halt.

An emergency stop can be quite disruptive. It's usually the default response when either the control system or the ride operator detects something unexpected. Whether it's an automated response or a manual intervention by the operator, these stops aim to mitigate any potential dangers to the riders.

If you need more information about funfair safety, check out our health and safety FAQs!