GREEN BAY, WI (WTAQ) – Four code violations were found during an investigation into a crash on the Zippin Pippin roller coaster.
That’s according to a state inspectors’ report about the June 20 crash of one train car into another which injured 3 people. However, the report doesn’t indicate a cause for the crash.
Four violations were found, according to the two-page report obtained by FOX 11.
“Operator training records for this ride were not available at this inspection. The only training records available were for Evacuation Training for two of the four personnel on duty at this location.”
The city was ordered to provide appropriate training and maintain the records properly.
“This ride requires a ride operator/driver in the enclosed operator station and a Dispatch/Loading Attendant working together to send the coaster train on its path. The Zippin Pippin Operations Manual, Page 26, requires the Dispatch/Loading Attendant to remain at their station, manning the Emergency Stop while the ride is in motion. The Dispatch/Loading Attendant was sitting on an empty train car when the loaded train entered the station and struck the empty car.”
The city was instructed to properly train ride staff to stay at their station.
“The 9th brake sensor has become loose and shows scrapes from brake fins having impacted it.”
The city was ordered to secure the sensor.
“At approximately 12:45pm on Monday, 20 June 2016, the Zippin Pippin Coaster, train 2 did not stop as designed at the loading platform and impacted empty train 1.
Corrective Actions Ordered:
1. The owner shall determine why train 2 impacted train
2. The owner shall have the train cars damaged in this incident recertified by the manufacturer before placing the coaster in service.
3. The owner shall perform a load test prior to opening to the public; the department shall be notified in advance of this test and will observe it.”
State inspectors plan to return to Green Bay later this week, according to a spokesman.
Mayor Jim Schmitt’s office released a statement acknowledging the report Tuesday.
“While there are some minor corrections the city needs to address, the cause of the Zippin Pippin incident is still under investigation,” read the statement. “We hope to have final findings and full certification by next week.”
