SeaWorld Orlando Fined for Trainer Safety Violation

SeaWorld Orlando has been fined $16,550 by the U.S. Department of Labor after an investigation by the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) determined a trainer was injured during a September 2024 training exercise with a killer whale. The trainer was reportedly not properly protected from hazards such as bites, struck-by incidents, and drowning risks. OSHA issued a serious citation under the general duty clause, accusing SeaWorld of allowing employees to work too closely with the orcas. SeaWorld has 15 business days to comply with the citation, request a conference, or contest the findings. This incident follows a history of safety issues at SeaWorld, including the notable 2010 death of trainer Dawn Brancheau, which led to previous OSHA citations. The park has faced ongoing criticism over the safety of its trainers and the treatment of its captive whales.