The U.S. Department of Labor has cited SeaWorld’s Orlando theme park after a trainer was injured while working with a killer whale during a training session in September 2024.
An investigation by the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) determined that SeaWorld failed to adequately protect employees from known hazards associated with close contact with the animal. OSHA issued a general duty clause serious citation, citing risks of bites, being struck, and drowning. The agency proposed a penalty of $16,550.
The citation follows a review of the incident, in which a SeaWorld employee was injured while interacting with the whale. OSHA concluded that the company did not implement sufficient safety measures to mitigate the risk posed by direct contact with the marine mammal.
SeaWorld has 15 business days from receipt of the citation to comply, request an informal conference with OSHA, or contest the findings before the Occupational Safety and Health Review Commission.
Employers seeking guidance on mitigating animal-related workplace hazards are encouraged to consult OSHA resources.
