Ocean Park given approval to reopen Mine Train today
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     The Electrical and Mechanical Services Department (EMSD) has completed its investigation of the incident concerning the Mine Train at Ocean Park, and has approved the reopening of the Mine Train today (September 30).

     On September 11, a coaster train of the Mine Train continued to enter the station after passing through the braking system and hit another train at the station. After the incident, the EMSD issued a closure order requiring Ocean Park to stop operation of the Mine Train, and requested Ocean Park to submit an incident report.

     The EMSD's investigation revealed that the incident was caused by the damage of a brake lining. This reduced the braking efficiency of the braking system, which could not effectively bring the train to a complete stop. The EMSD has examined and given its approval to the improvement measures proposed by Ocean Park to prevent the occurrence of similar incidents in the future. The improvement measures include:

* enhancing the frequency of inspection of the braking system;
* enhancing the frequency of inspection of the guide wheels and the brake fins of the trains;
* tightening the replacement criteria for the brake linings; and
* readjusting the braking force of brake units to further increase the safety factor.

     After the implementation of the improvement measures, Ocean Park arranged for an independent surveyor to examine the Mine Train and confirmed the integrity and safe operation of the ride. The EMSD has examined all the improvement measures and confirmed their proper completion. Having been satisfied that these measures can effectively prevent the occurrence of similar incidents in the future and ensure passenger safety, the EMSD agreed that Ocean Park could reopen the Mine Train today.


Ends/Friday, September 30, 2011
Issued at HKT 17:22

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