Local IATSE Agent critiques safety and labor practices at TNT events in Bloomington Normal

During the recent Town of Normal Council meeting, significant concerns were raised regarding the local impact of event staffing and safety practices at TNT events. A representative from IATSE Local 1 93, the state hands union, voiced strong objections to the decision by USA Concerts to partner with an out-of-state company, Peachtree Entertainment, for labor needs. This shift means that funds that could support local stagehands will instead leave the community, raising alarms about economic repercussions for local workers.

The representative highlighted a decade-long relationship between USA Concerts and local stagehands, emphasizing the importance of keeping labor within the community. The concern is not only financial; safety issues were also brought to light. Last year, an incident occurred when an outside company was hired to construct the VIP section for TNT events, resulting in an injury when the structure collapsed. The representative noted that safety protocols were not followed, with workers failing to use harnesses while working at dangerous heights.

Additionally, the use of inappropriate equipment was criticized. The council was informed that USA Concerts opted for indoor video walls instead of the necessary outdoor models designed to withstand wind, which could pose risks during events at the fairgrounds.

The representative urged the council to consider ongoing site inspections to ensure safety for both workers and the public, stressing that prioritizing profit over community welfare could have dire consequences. This discussion underscores the need for local governance to support community-based labor and enforce safety standards at public events, ensuring that both economic and physical safety are prioritized in future planning.