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

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

COLUMBUS, Ohio – With the opening of the 2026 Ohio State Fair just days away, the Ohio Department of Commerce’s Division of Industrial Compliance (DIC) and Division of State Fire Marshal (SFM) are highlighting the various roles they play in making sure everything from new buildings to tents to stuffed toys are safe for fairgoers, vendors and staff.

Before hundreds of thousands of visitors walk through the fair gates during the 12-day event, both Divisions are working closely with event coordinators and industry partners to ensure necessary inspections pass state safety standards.

Inspectors with the Division of Industrial Compliance examine certain temporary structures, vendor installations, stages and new buildings on the State Fairgrounds to make sure they meet building code standards. For example, there are five new and renovated buildings at the Ohio State Fair this year, including a cooking demonstration venue that will host First Lady Fran DeWine.

DIC inspectors will also examine stuffed toys sold by the Fair’s various vendors to ensure they meet safety standards, including making sure that all materials are accurately 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,” said 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 same time, inspectors with the Division of State Fire Marshals’ Code Enforcement Bureau conduct detailed, hands-on inspections of food vendors, fun houses, and haunted attractions across the Ohio State Fair. During these inspections, they carefully examine booth setups, cooking equipment, emergency exits, fire extinguishers, and overall life safety to ensure everything meets the requirements of the Ohio Fire Code. 

SFM inspectors also verify that vendors maintain proper clearances around cooking areas, that escape routes remain unobstructed, and that temporary structures used in fun houses and haunted attractions have the proper fire‑resistant materials and safety measures in place. In addition to inspections taking place prior to the Fair, at least one inspector from the Division will remain on site during the hours of operation. These inspections not only identify and correct potential hazards before the fair opens, they also provide an opportunity for inspectors to educate vendors on best practices and the importance of following fire codes to protect 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,” said 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.”