The U.S. Department of Labor Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) has cited IPMF, LLC, operating as NaturPak, a Wisconsin-based food products manufacturer, after two incidents involving industrial kettles releasing hot steam and liquid that resulted in three worker deaths and two serious injuries.

OSHA investigators responded to the first incident on Feb. 12, 2026, at IPMF. 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 employees were hospitalized, and one later died from complications related to the injuries.

On March 18, OSHA investigators responded to a second incident involving multiple worker hospitalizations. A kettle lid opened while under pressure, releasing steam, hot liquid, and organic material, burning three workers. Two workers died from their injuries, while another was hospitalized.

OSHA issued the employer 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 adjacent to permit-required confined spaces.

OSHA also issued serious citations for exposing workers to thermal hazards without quick access to emergency water. The employer received additional citations for exposing workers to falls into the kettles and failing to assess personal protective equipment for thermal risks. OSHA also issued repeat citations for failing to develop, document, and use lockout/tagout procedures for the kettles and failing to train employees on those procedures.

The agency 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 of $364,100.

IPMF has 15 business days from receipt of its citations and penalties to comply, request an informal conference with OSHA’s area director, or contest the findings before the independent Occupational Safety and Health Review Commission.