OSHA File: Cirque du Soleil Accident
When the world’s most famous circus, Cirque du Soleil, faced a tragic accident, the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) was called in to investigate. This incident, which occurred on July 8, 2014, during the performance of “The Beatles Love” in Las Vegas, Nevada, left a performer critically injured. In this article, we delve into the details of the OSHA file, examining the circumstances surrounding the accident, the subsequent investigation, and the safety measures in place at the time.
Incident Details
The accident occurred during a performance of “The Beatles Love” when a performer, Sarah Guillot-Guyon, was performing a high-flying trapeze act. Guillot-Guyon was suspended by a harness attached to a trapeze bar, which was then released by another performer. However, the harness failed, causing Guillot-Guyon to plummet to the ground. She was critically injured and was rushed to the hospital, where she underwent emergency surgery.
OSHA Investigation
Following the accident, OSHA launched an investigation into the incident. The investigation revealed several safety violations, including:
| Violation | Description |
|---|---|
| Failure to Inspect Equipment | The harness used in the trapeze act had not been inspected in accordance with company policy. |
| Inadequate Training | The performers involved in the trapeze act had not received adequate training on the use of the harness. |
| Lack of Supervision | The performers were not adequately supervised during the performance. |
OSHA also found that the company had a history of safety violations, with 17 previous citations for similar issues.
Company Response
Following the OSHA investigation, Cirque du Soleil took several steps to address the safety issues identified. These included:
- Revising safety protocols to ensure proper equipment inspection and maintenance.
- Implementing a comprehensive training program for all performers.
- Increasing the number of safety supervisors on-site during performances.
Impact on the Industry
The Cirque du Soleil accident had a significant impact on the entertainment industry, prompting many companies to review their safety policies and procedures. The incident highlighted the importance of rigorous safety protocols, proper equipment maintenance, and adequate training for performers. It also led to increased scrutiny from regulatory agencies, such as OSHA, which have since conducted more thorough inspections of entertainment venues.
Conclusion
The OSHA file on the Cirque du Soleil accident provides a detailed look into the tragic incident and the subsequent investigation. It underscores the importance of safety in the entertainment industry and the need for continuous improvement in safety protocols. While the accident was a tragic event, it served as a catalyst for change, leading to better safety measures for performers and audiences alike.
