Two contractors working for the Sevier County School System were injured Friday morning in an incident involving a scissor lift at Pigeon Forge High School. The accident, which occurred around 10:45 a.m., resulted in the lift tipping over while the contractors were operating it.
Assistant Superintendent Tony Ogle confirmed the situation, stating his understanding that the lift overturned with the workers on it. The incident prompted a significant emergency response to the school campus.
Pigeon Forge Police Chief Richie Catlett provided further details regarding the immediate aftermath. According to Chief Catlett, one of the injured contractors was transported from the scene by ambulance for medical treatment. The second contractor sustained injuries severe enough to require air transport and was reportedly flown out by UT Lifestar. Chief Catlett indicated that he was not immediately aware of the full extent of the injuries sustained by either individual.
Officials clarified that the injured individuals were contractors engaged in work on a building at the school, and they were not employees of the Sevier County School System. The specific nature of the work being performed on the school building was not further detailed by officials.
Assistant Superintendent Ogle's confirmation highlighted the serious nature of the workplace accident at the high school. The Sevier County School System frequently utilizes external contractors for various maintenance, construction, and repair projects across its facilities. This incident involved individuals operating in such a contracted capacity.
Chief Catlett also communicated his understanding that both the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) and the Tennessee Occupational Safety and Health Administration (TOSHA) were contacted regarding the incident. These federal and state agencies are typically responsible for investigating workplace accidents to determine causes, ensure compliance with safety regulations, and prevent future occurrences. The involvement of these regulatory bodies suggests a formal inquiry into the circumstances surrounding the scissor lift's tip-over and the resulting injuries to the two contractors.
The event underscores potential safety hazards associated with construction and maintenance activities, even within school environments. While the precise cause of the scissor lift tipping remains subject to potential investigation by OSHA and TOSHA, the incident necessitated a substantial emergency response. The dispatch of both an ambulance and a medical helicopter, UT Lifestar, indicates the serious condition of the contractors involved. Local officials, including Chief Catlett, were on site gathering initial information following the morning accident. Further details regarding the ongoing investigation and the medical condition of the injured contractors are anticipated as inquiries progress. The implementation and adherence to safety protocols for contractors working on school premises are critical for ensuring a secure environment for all personnel involved in facility upkeep and development within the Sevier County School System.