OSHA investigating amusement park worker’s workplace injury

North Carolina families visit theme and amusement parks generally to have an escape and enjoy themselves. They often don’t consider how much work goes into running a park and ensuring guests’ happiness and safety. They may be even less likely to realize how dangerous certain jobs relating to amusement parks can sometimes be. A recent accident at the popular Carowinds theme park reminds park patrons that the possibility of a workplace injury is a very real risk for amusement park workers.

The incident occurred on a recent morning when a worker was inspecting a ride known as Windseeker, a 301-foot tall swing ride. At the time of the accident, the worker was about 200 feet above the ground. Authorities have not said exactly what caused the injury to the worker’s extremity, but they say that the man was lowered safely to the ground without falling. Emergency responders arrived soon afterward and he was taken to a local hospital.

Representatives from the Occupational Safety and Health Administration are working to determine exactly what occurred. They have stated that their investigation could take around eight weeks to complete. OSHA investigators will attempt to determine if any safety violations caused or contributed to the injury to the worker.

When accidents like this happen, they can seriously impact an employee’s ability to continue working, This can make it difficult for the injured worker to financially provide for his or her family or anyone else who is dependent on the employee’s income. Employees who suffer a workplace injury have the right to seek workers’ compensation benefits. Anyone who has questions about this process can reach out to an experienced attorney right here in North Carolina to determine the next steps to take.