The U.S. Department of Labor has slammed an Ohio commercial bakery with multiple citations for failing to protect its workers from a slew of dangers. The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) uncovered a disturbing pattern at New Horizons Baking Co., where employees were found to be at risk from chemical exposure and machinery accidents. The findings from the federal investigation into the company's practices were just the latest in what seems to be an alarming disregard for worker safety.
Specifically, OSHA's scrutiny brought to light three repeat violations at the bakery. The company evidently neglected to adequately train its employees on how to properly shut down and secure machines during maintenance and cleaning—a practice known as lockout/tagout. Failing to properly do so has historically led to catastrophic accidents within the industry. OSHA claims that by overlooking these critical precautions, the company put its employees in harm's way, exposing them to potential caught-in, pinch-point, and struck-by incidents.
A total of thirteen citations were issued against the Ohio bakery: three repeat, nine serious, and one other-than-serious. The proposed fines amount to a substantial $394,849, signaling the gravity of the infractions discovered by OSHA investigators. An official statement details the various hazards and the company's deficiencies in addressing them.
New Horizons Baking Co. has been given 15 business days from the receipt of the citations to either comply, request an informal conference with OSHA representatives, or contest the findings before the Occupational Safety and Health Review Commission. The penalties and citations may potentially be adjusted as the case progresses. It's recommended that those interested in keeping abreast with the situation should frequently check the OSHA establishment search page for any updates on the inspection or penalty status.
The incident at New Horizons Baking Co. serves as a stark reminder of the importance of workplace safety. OSHA encourages employers to educate themselves on the proper handling of hazardous energy and the regulations surrounding permit-required confined spaces. Assistance and resources are available from the agency to help companies comply with the necessary safety standards and reduce the risk of accidents and injuries.
