How are rides tested for safety?
There are standards that prescribe ride testing.
This involves mechanical and structural assessment by qualified engineers. Some tests are done by mathematical calculation and others are done by running the ride with sensors on it. The ride is assessed in operation as well as while standing still. It also is analysed for safety in special conditions, such as emergency mode. It will not be adequate if the ride just barely supports the weight of the passengers. It must also hold up the weight of the emergency rescue crews if people need to climb on to help stuck passengers. Engineers include a “safety factor” whenever they design or evaluate a machine or structure. The size of the safety factor is part of their professional judgement.