Hermiston High School Stadium’s FAIL
Hermiston High School’s bleachers have been closed indefinitely after a safety inspector failed to find anything in compliance with modern safety standards.
According to a press release from the Hermiston School District, a report by a landscape architect investigating cracks in the high school’s track concluded, “The bleachers surprised us the most.”
“There are no aspects… that appear to be compliant with today’s standards. These represent the greatest threat to the health, safety and welfare of the public,” it continued.
Here is a list:
- Open deck that provides a fall-through hazard
- No side and back guardrails for seating over 30 feet
- Non-compliance with aisle requirements, exiting requirements, handrails and general code requirements.
- Antiquated foundation/support system
- Non-compliant press box access
- Non compliant ADA ramps, seating and other spaces
The investigation of the track revealed it is too old. “The track is at the end of its useful life and that replacement is the only option to correcting the existing condition,” the report said.
The district estimates replacing the bleachers and track will cost $3.147 million. Much of the money could come from state grants.