Behind the Fun: Ohio Department of Commerce Highlights Roles in Ensuring a Safe Experience on the 2026 Ohio State Fair

Behind the Fun: Ohio Department of Commerce Highlights Roles in Ensuring a Safe Experience on the 2026 Ohio State Fair

July 24, 2026 Dan Ramey

Article introduced by Accurate Heating, Cooling & Plumbing and Rathkamp Financial  …

COLUMBUS, Ohio – With the opening of the 2026 Ohio State Fair simply days away, the Ohio Department of Commerce’s Division of Industrial Compliance (DIC) and Division of State Fire Marshal (SFM) are highlighting the varied roles they play in ensuring the whole lot from new buildings to tents to stuffed toys are protected for fairgoers, distributors and workers.

Before a whole bunch of 1000’s of holiday makers stroll via the honest gates through the 12-day occasion, each Divisions are working carefully with occasion coordinators and business companions to make sure essential inspections go state security requirements.

Inspectors with the Division of Industrial Compliance study sure short-term buildings, vendor installations, phases and new buildings on the State Fairgrounds to verify they meet constructing code requirements. For instance, there are 5 new and renovated buildings on the Ohio State Fair this 12 months, together with a cooking demonstration venue that may host First Lady Fran DeWine.

DIC inspectors will even study stuffed toys bought by the Fair’s varied distributors to make sure they meet security requirements, together with ensuring that every one supplies are precisely represented on the tag.

“Our inspections are key to making sure Ohioans are safe and fairgoers can visit the Fair with confidence and peace of mind,” mentioned Division of Industrial Compliance Superintendent Robb Coventry. “Safety is built into every step of our process. Our Division’s Building Code Compliance section has been working for the last several years with the Fair staff, contractors, and designers to ensure these new and renovated buildings open safely and on time.”

At the identical time, inspectors with the Division of State Fire Marshals’ Code Enforcement Bureau conduct detailed, hands-on inspections of meals distributors, enjoyable homes, and haunted sights throughout the Ohio State Fair. During these inspections, they fastidiously study sales space setups, cooking tools, emergency exits, hearth extinguishers, and total life security to make sure the whole lot meets the necessities of the Ohio Fire Code. 

SFM inspectors additionally confirm that distributors keep correct clearances round cooking areas, that escape routes stay unobstructed, and that short-term buildings utilized in enjoyable homes and haunted sights have the right hearth‑resistant supplies and security measures in place. In addition to inspections happening previous to the Fair, at the least one inspector from the Division will stay on web site through the hours of operation. These inspections not solely establish and proper potential hazards earlier than the honest opens, additionally they present a chance for inspectors to coach distributors on finest practices and the significance of following hearth codes to guard public well-being.

“Our goal is to make sure everyone who comes to the Ohio State Fair is able to enjoy the attractions, the great food, and the fun in the safest environment possible,” mentioned Ohio Fire Marshal Kevin Reardon. “Safety is the foundation that allows families to relax, explore, and create lasting memories at the Fair, and we’re proud of the role we play in ensuring a safe experience for all.”