The U.S. Department of Labor has cited New Horizons Baking Co., an Ohio-based commercial bakery, for multiple safety violations following a federal investigation. The investigation revealed that the company allegedly exposed its workers to various unsafe conditions, including chemical hazards and mechanical risks such as pinch-point, caught-between, and struck-by dangers.
The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) identified three repeat violations at the bakery. These included failing to train employees on lockout/tagout procedures, not implementing these procedures, and neglecting to guard dangerous machinery. Such oversights put workers at risk of injury from pinch-point, struck-by, and caught-in hazards.
In total, OSHA issued citations for three repeat violations, nine serious violations, and one other-than-serious violation. The proposed penalties amount to $394,849. New Horizons Baking Co. has 15 business days from receiving the citations to comply with the regulations, request an informal conference with OSHA, or contest the findings before the Occupational Safety and Health Review Commission.
Penalties may be adjusted during the case's progression. Updates on inspection or penalty status can be checked on OSHA's establishment search page (https://www.osha.gov/pls/imis/establishment.html). Employers seeking assistance can access OSHA’s compliance resources for guidance on adhering to safety standards.
