In the comics, Spider-Man worked without fall protection. Actors in a new show based on the comic can’t do that, and four on-stage injuries have caught OSHA’s attention.
OSHA has issued $12,600 in fines to 8 Legged Productions, the production company for the Broadway show, “Spider-Man Turn Off the Dark.”
The federal agency received a referral from the New York State Department of Labor after four employee injuries between Sept. 25 and Dec. 20, 2010.
In one incident, Christopher Tierney, a stunt double playing Spider-Man, plunged about 30 feet into a stage pit, despite a safety harness that should have prevented the fall.
Tierney is recovering after back surgery.
Three other actors suffered injuries: a concussion and two broken wrists. The actress who had the concussion left the show.
OSHA issued three serious violations:
- employees were exposed to hazards involving falls or being struck during flying routines because of improperly adjusted or unsecured safety harnesses
- a fall hazard that stemmed from unguarded open-side floors that lacked fall protection, and
- failure to shield employees from being struck by moving overhead rigging components.
The show’s producers have agreed to a requirement that a second person ensure the harnesses used by performers have been put on properly.
The show has become the most expensive every on Broadway, costing at least $65 million. Despite that, it’s expected to close for two to three weeks so changes can be made before it officially opens sometime in June.
