WMFE Public Broadcasting Stations : OSHA Cites Disney in Monorail Accident
Following it's investigation of the July 5th (2009) monorail accident, the Occupational Safety and Health Administration has announced that it is fininig WDW $44,000. OSHA claims the safety violations were contributing factors to one monorail train backing into another. This resulted in the tragic death of 21 year old CM pilot, Austin Wuennenberg of Kissimmee.
When this accident was first discussed here on MiceChat during this past summer, it was revealed that Austin was professeional where operations and safety are concerned. Yet, the young man was popuar with guests.. going all out to ensure that everyone that he interacted with left happy as a result of his friendliness and wealth of interesting information pertaing to Disney.
If Disney feels OSHA's judgement is unfounded, I would hope that it will challenge the ruling. Afterall, the occupational safety bureau has a history of being over-zealous in it's inspections, investigations and determinations. Then again, Disney deserves to pay the fine (plus any subsequent lawsuits) should substantial and irrefutable facts be released supporting the decision. This would add to the tragic heartbreak that Austin's family and friends have already suffered.. not to mention a black eye to WDW, as it would also be hurt from the negative publicity.
Disney has twevle (12) days left (from today, Dec. 27th) to decide whether to "comply with recommendations or to contest the citations".
Following it's investigation of the July 5th (2009) monorail accident, the Occupational Safety and Health Administration has announced that it is fininig WDW $44,000. OSHA claims the safety violations were contributing factors to one monorail train backing into another. This resulted in the tragic death of 21 year old CM pilot, Austin Wuennenberg of Kissimmee.
When this accident was first discussed here on MiceChat during this past summer, it was revealed that Austin was professeional where operations and safety are concerned. Yet, the young man was popuar with guests.. going all out to ensure that everyone that he interacted with left happy as a result of his friendliness and wealth of interesting information pertaing to Disney.
If Disney feels OSHA's judgement is unfounded, I would hope that it will challenge the ruling. Afterall, the occupational safety bureau has a history of being over-zealous in it's inspections, investigations and determinations. Then again, Disney deserves to pay the fine (plus any subsequent lawsuits) should substantial and irrefutable facts be released supporting the decision. This would add to the tragic heartbreak that Austin's family and friends have already suffered.. not to mention a black eye to WDW, as it would also be hurt from the negative publicity.
Disney has twevle (12) days left (from today, Dec. 27th) to decide whether to "comply with recommendations or to contest the citations".
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