Are the Alpine summer luge tracks in Switzerland responsible for 130 accidents annually, raising questions about their safety?
Safety Concerns Rise as Summer Luge Accidents Persist in Switzerland
Recent accidents on summer toboggan runs in Switzerland have sparked concerns about the safety of these popular attractions. A tragic incident at the Heimwehfluh toboggan run near Interlaken, where a 35-year-old man lost his life during a test run, has brought the issue of safety to the forefront [1].
Investigations have revealed that the machines on these runs require extensive maintenance, with some facilities showing signs of wear and tear, particularly during wet weather [3]. User reviews and reports suggest that braking issues are common, which may compromise safety.
The Association of Ski Lift Companies, which operates many of the summer and winter luge runs in Switzerland, insists that mandatory inspections ensure maximum safety on these runs. However, there is a notable conflict in perspectives on safety regulations. The Association tends to focus on operational practices, while Bern's Department of Public Works and Transport urges improvements in accident prevention and stricter regulation enforcement [1].
This disagreement affects the implementation and monitoring of safety standards on summer luges. Unlike cable cars and ski lifts, summer toboggan runs are not subject to legal requirements for operational supervision. They may be subject to voluntary supervision or periodic inspections by the canton or operator.
The steep slope of the summer toboggan run subjects the wheels and brakes to heavy loads, which could potentially lead to mechanical failures. This was evident in the case of the summer toboggan run in Matten, where a 35-year-old employee died on July 4th while testing the run, and the run has been closed until further notice [2].
In 2014, a 16-year-old girl suffered a serious head injury on the summer toboggan run in Matten. Another accident occurred in 2021, resulting in a hospitalization. The Cantonal Directorate of Public Works and Transport has concluded that the conditions for the summer toboggan run to operate safely are no longer met.
Between 2019 and 2023, the Swiss National Accident Insurance Fund recorded about 130 accidents per year on summer toboggan runs, though most were not fatal or very serious [1]. Gabor Piskoty, an engineer at the Swiss Federal Institute for Materials Science and Technology Empa, suggests that backrests and three-point seat belts could prevent similar accidents.
Despite these concerns, summer toboggan runs remain a popular attraction in Switzerland. Visitors are advised to exercise caution and be aware of the potential risks involved. Public authorities have called for improved safety regulations and infrastructure upgrades to reduce these risks [1][3].
References:
- Swissinfo
- BBC News
- The Local
In light of the persistent accidents on summer luge runs in Switzerland, there is a growing need for general news coverage on the safety measures and regulations enforced for these attractions. The common issues of mechanism malfunctions and braking problems have been highlighted in several incidents, such as the tragic accident at Heimwehfluh and the closure of the Matten summer toboggan run due to mechanical failures. Despite the potential risks, these luges remain popular destinations for visitors. Thus, stricter regulations and infrastructure improvements are proposed to ensure a safer experience for all.
