OSHA Cites SeaWorld in Florida Drowning Accident that Killed Trainer
The U.S. Dept. of Labor's Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) has issued its findings in a highly publicized Orlando, Florida accident that left a SeaWorld trainer dead.
The incident received international news coverage last February when a SeaWorld trainer, who had been working with a killer whale, was pulled underwater by the whale in front of a park audience. The trainer suffered injuries to her spine, head and ribs and died by drowning.
OSHA maintains Florida offices including one in Fort Lauderdale, Florida.
OSHA is the same regulating agency that is called to investigate types of work-related accidents in South Florida, including construction accidents and accidents related to maritime law.
OSHA found SeaWorld to be in violation of three safety regulations and has fined the company $75,000 for allowing trainers to work with potentially dangerous animals. The case has raised many questions about the risks involved to trainers and other staff in working with large animals and whether it is humane to keep these creatures in captivity. OSHA stated that the same whale was involved in the death of another trainer in Canada.
Fort Lauderdale, Florida work accident lawyers may work with families in cases where an employer's negligence may have led to injury or death of an employee.
US Labor Department's OSHA cites SeaWorld of Florida following animal trainer's death
OSHA News Release Aug. 23, 2010
SeaWorld fined $75,000 for safety violations
CNN.com Aug. 23, 2010
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