OSHA cited NaturPak after two incidents at its Wisconsin facility involving industrial kettles that killed three workers and seriously injured two others, resulting in total penalties of $364,100 for multiple safety violations including inadequate pressure relief systems and failure to implement proper lockout procedures.
- Two separate kettle incidents occurred at NaturPak's Janesville, Wisconsin facility in February and March, killing three workers and seriously injuring two others
- OSHA issued multiple serious citations for kettle design hazards, thermal burn risks, inadequate emergency water access, and missing lockout/tagout procedures
- The company received repeat citations for failing to develop and train employees on proper safety procedures for confined spaces and equipment
- Total penalties reached $364,100, with $115,850 for the February incident and $248,250 for the March incident
The U.S. Department of Labor has cited IPMF LLC, doing business as NaturPak, after two incidents at the company's Janesville, Wisconsin, U.S., facility involving industrial kettles that released hot steam and liquid, killing three workers and seriously injuring two others.
First incident occurred in February
Investigators with the department's Occupational Safety and Health Administration responded to the first incident Feb. 12, when the lid of an industrial kettle unexpectedly opened after a clogged vent line caused pressure to build up, releasing steam, liquid and organic material onto two nearby employees. One employee was also struck by an object and suffered a concussion. Both were hospitalized, and one later died from complications related to their injuries.
Second incident followed in March
OSHA investigators responded to a second incident March 18, when a kettle lid opened under pressure and released steam, hot liquid and organic material, burning three workers. Two of the workers died from their injuries, and a third was hospitalized.
NaturPak paused operations for one day after the March 18 incident before resuming normal operations.
Company faces multiple citations
OSHA issued the company one serious citation for the design and use of kettles that led to pressure and thermal burn hazards; a repeat citation for exposing workers to falls to lower levels; and an other-than-serious citation for failing to notify employees working near permit-required confined spaces.
The agency also issued serious citations for exposing workers to thermal hazards without quick access to emergency water, exposing workers to falls into the kettles, and failing to assess personal protective equipment for thermal risks. OSHA issued repeat citations for failing to develop, document and use lockout/tagout procedures for the kettles and for failing to train employees on those procedures.
OSHA issued $115,850 in penalties related to the inspection opened Feb. 12 and $248,250 in penalties for the inspection opened March 18, for a total $364,100 in penalties.
IPMF LLC has 15 business days from receipt of its citations to comply, request an informal conference with OSHA's area director, or contest the findings before the independent Occupational Safety and Health Review Commission.
NaturPak is a co-manufacturer of shelf-stable food for human and pet nutrition, including shelf-stable, human-grade wet pet food. The company specializes in Tetra Recart cartons and offers research and development, ingredient sourcing and filling services for brands seeking BPA-free alternatives to cans and jars.
