Seaworld Orlando is again in the spotlight due to a accident occurred in September 2024during a session of training with an orca. A trainer is remained injured And the episode brought theOsha (Occupational Safety and Health Administration), Authority for work safety in the United States, to inflict one fine of 16,550 dollars, equal to approximately 15,500 euros.
According to what reported by Department of Laborthe worker related to the interaction with the animal, during a desensitization exercise in water in the park medical tank. The investigations found that the trainer was exhibited to significant dangersincluding bites, shocks and the risk of drowningfor which Seaworld received a quote for severe violation from the general duty clause.
Many, too many accidents at the Seaworld
It is not the first time that Seaworld ends at the center of disputes related to employee safety. One of the most tragic episodes dates back to 2010when Dawn Brancheau trainer He lost his life during a show with the Orca Tilikum. That accident shook public opinion and led to important changes in Safety rulesfor example, by prohibiting trainers to enter the water during shows with the orcies.
Since 2017, Seaworld Orlando has received at least seven reports concerning work safety, and despite some improvements, they remain doubts about the actual protection of the operators. According to what emerged, the five orche currently present They live in the full -time park and continue to perform every day.
SeaWorld, while also playing an active role in the rescue and rehabilitation of wounded or in difficulty marine animals, has been for years object of criticism by animal rights groups, in particular after the spread of the documentary “Blackfish“, Which has raised ethical questions about the treatment of orche in captivity. This new episode therefore reopens the debate on how entertainment can justify the exposure to serious risksboth for animals and for people who work with them every day.
