Blackbird Mountain Guides Hit with Major Fines After Avalanche Tragedy

Following a tragic avalanche on February 17 that claimed the lives of three guides and six clients near Truckee, California, Blackbird Mountain Guides (BMG) is facing significant penalties. The California Division of Occupational Safety and Health (Cal/OSHA) has proposed fines totaling $151,000 against the guiding company for multiple workplace violations.

Cal/OSHA's report outlines seven infractions, highlighting failures such as the inability to properly assess avalanche dangers and insufficient staff training. Among the most severe penalties is an $81,000 fine for not correcting hazards associated with traveling in avalanche terrain when conditions were rated high.

BMG has announced plans to appeal the citations, asserting that they complied with safety standards. In a statement, the company expressed confidence in its safety protocols, claiming that the citations do not accurately reflect their practices or the industry standards for mountain guiding.

Legal experts note that the citations are particularly serious, with some classified as “willful-serious,” indicating BMG may have knowingly put employees in danger. The avalanche warning issued by the Sierra Avalanche Center on the day of the incident rated conditions as high risk, yet BMG guides entered the perilous area to assist, disregarding local authorities' advice.

While BMG is contesting the fines, they have also commissioned an independent avalanche report that supports their actions during the event. The appeal process will now proceed to the California Occupational Safety and Health Appeals Board, which may take several months before reaching a conclusion.

Source: www.outsideonline.com