Inspection Detail

Inspection: 123192916 - Liz Sue Bagels, Inc.

Inspection Information - Office: Bridgeport Area Office

Investigation Summary

At approximately 10:30 p.m. on May 31, 2011, two employees were working for Liz Sue Bagels, Inc. Employee #1 worked as a baker and a cook, and Employee #2 worked as an assistant to the baker and cook. Employee #1 preheated a Cutler oven by turning on two switches. From 10:30 p.m. to nearly 10:45 p.m., Employee #1 and Employee #2 were prepping pastries. Employee #1 smelled gas and informed Employee #2 that he would check on the oven. Employee #1 stated that the oven did not turn on. Employees were not required to inspect the inside of the oven or the pilot light. While talking to Employee #2, Employee #1 opened the oven door. Five to ten seconds later, at approximately 10:44:53 p.m., there was an explosion in the oven. Employee #1 could not see. He went to the front of the company, then to the back, and finally to the street, where he asked for help. Three police officers were outside, and they came to Employee #1's assistance. The two employees were transported to Stamford Hospital and then to the Bridgeport Hospital burn unit. Both employees sustained burns to their faces, arms, hands, and legs. Both employees had stated the oven had exploded two to four times during May 2011.

Keywords: BURN, FOOD PREPARATION, VAPOR, INADEQUATE MAINT, OVEN, NATURAL GAS, EXPLOSION, GAS LEAK, FACE, HAND