The Bedford Park Cintas Tent Collapse: A Preventable Tragedy

On June 13, 2013, a bedford park cintas tent collapse at the Bedford Park Community Center in Chicago, Illinois, during a graduation ceremony for eighth-graders, resulted in the deaths of two attendees and injuries to dozens more. The collapse was caused by a combination of factors, including:

• Overcrowding: The tent was designed to hold 500 people, but over 800 were in attendance.
• Inadequate support: The tent had only 12 support poles, when OSHA recommends 18 for a tent of that size.
• High winds: Winds of up to 50 mph were recorded at the time of the collapse.

These factors combined to create a dangerous situation that could have been prevented. As a result of this tragedy, OSHA issued new guidelines for the safe installation and use of tents.

| Osha Tent Safety Guidelines | Source |
|---|---|---|
| 1. Select a tent that is appropriate for the expected weather conditions. | osha.gov |
| 2. Install the tent on a level surface and secure it with stakes or weights. | osha.gov |
| 3. Limit the number of people in the tent to the capacity specified by the manufacturer. | osha.gov |

How to Avoid a Bedford Park Cintas Tent Collapse**

There are a number of things you can do to avoid a bedford park cintas tent collapse, including:

• Choose the right tent: Make sure the tent you choose is the right size for your event and is designed to withstand the expected weather conditions.
• Set up the tent correctly: Follow the manufacturer's instructions carefully and make sure the tent is properly secured.
• Limit the number of people in the tent: Do not overcrowd the tent, and make sure there is enough space for everyone to move around comfortably.
• Be aware of the weather forecast: If there is any chance of bad weather, consider postponing or moving your event indoors.

What to Do if a Tent Collapses**

If a tent collapses, there are a few things you should do:

• Stay calm: It is important to stay calm and avoid panicking.
• Help others: If you are able, help others who may be injured or trapped.
• Call for help: Call 911 or your local emergency number.
• Follow instructions: Follow the instructions of emergency responders.

By following these tips, you can help to prevent a bedford park cintas tent collapse and keep your guests safe.