OSHA Cites FL Zoo After Zookeeper Injured by Rhino
March 14, 2026

The United States Department of Labor’s Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) cited the Jacksonville Zoo after one of their zookeepers was seriously injured by a rhinoceros. OSHA launched an inspection and determined the Florida zoo was exposing workers to recognized hazards.

They received a serious citation for failing to protect workers from hazards when they were feeding and training the rhinos, they were exposed to struck-by hazards at the training chute. The zoo also received an other-than-serious citation because they failed to notify OSHA of the employee’s hospitalization within 24 hours of the incident, which is required.

“Zoos and animal parks must ensure safety measures including proper design to protect employees when training and caring for animals,” said OSHA Area Office Director Michelle Gonzalez, in Jacksonville, FL.

The zoo faces $14,661 in penalties.

Read more from OSHA’s newsroom.

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