HSEC were approached by Thorpe Park to conduct a
design review of the Colossus amusement. This
involved full assessment on the adequacy of the
design, and assessment of the conformity of the
built device to this design. The scope of work
also involved description and supervision of the
initial tests. Colossus is a permanently fixed,
steel roller coaster type device comprising two
trains which are lifted 30m via a train lift and
then allowed to proceed through ten inversions
under the influence of gravity. The ride offers
a maximum occupancy of 56 persons.
The review involved comprehensive analysis of
the mechanical, electrical and control systems
on both the trains and the track. Containment
and safety systems were also verified. In
addition, all HSEC design reviews such as this
aim to satisfy the following main objectives:
- Verify the design documentation
including any Safety Requirement Specification
and operating instructions were checked for
completeness and detail.
- Ensure any ride design work outside the
manufacturers competence has been completed by
persons with relevant competencies.
- Assumptions are questioned, particularly
those on which any calculations are based.
- Check calculations are comprehensive and
correct, including those which have been carried
out using computer programs.
- Make certain design documents are
consistent with appropriate standards,
specifications and industry practice.
- Confirm inspection and maintenance
instructions are consistent with design data.
The report concluded that the ride is likely to
be safe if operated and maintained according to
the manufacturer’s instructions and subject to
implementation of HSEC’s comments.
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