March 16, 2026

US Department of Labor cites Midwest commercial bakery for repeat, serious safety violations following employee injury

CHICAGO – The U.S. Department of Labor has cited a Midwest commercial bakery for repeatedly exposing employees to safety hazards after a worker suffered a broken arm in September 2025 when clearing dough from a machine while working on the production line.

The department’s Occupational Safety and Health Administration cited Alpha Baking Co. Inc. with repeat violations for lack of lockout tagout training, failing to lockout a machine during servicing, and other hazards related to unguarded machines. The agency also cited the employer for failing to train employees in electrical work, implement safety-related work practices and use personal protective equipment when performing electrical work.

OSHA cited Alpha Baking Co. Inc. for three repeat and three serious violations, with proposed penalties totaling $326,276.

The company has 15 business days from receipt of their citations and penalties to comply, request an informal conference with OSHA, or contest the findings before the independent Occupational Safety and Health Review Commission. Please check the OSHA establishment search page periodically for any changes in the inspection or penalty status.

Learn about controlling hazardous energy and proper machine guarding.

Learn more about OSHA. Employers can also contact the agency for information about OSHA’s compliance assistance resources and for free help on complying with OSHA standards.

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Media Contacts:

Juan J. Rodríguez, 972-850-4709, rodriguez.juan@dol.gov
Eric R. Lucero, 678-237-0630, lucero.eric.r@dol.gov
Erika B. Ruthman, 678-237-0630, ruthman.erika.b@dol.gov

Release Number: 26-414-CHI