15 Apr Pa. Bakery Reopens with BCTGM Local 6 Workers
BCTGM Local 6 (Philadelphia) members began baking bread again Easter weekend at the former Stroehmann Brothers Bakery in Hazelton, Pa. The bakery, owned by BIMBO BAKERIES USA, was closed last fall and was reopened to meet the increased demand for bread during the Coronavirus health crisis. Union members were recalled to begin production on April 10.
Citing the importance of the health and safety of its workforce, BIMBO Bakeries USA implemented additional safety measures at the Hazelton bakery, above the recommended CDC guidelines already in place at all BIMBO facilities. Added measures include:
- Increased social distance practices by staggering start times to limit the number of workers in common areas (time clocks, break rooms, locker rooms); creating single chair tables in the break rooms; and, marking the floor in areas where workers may congregate to signify proper 6-foot distancing.
- Increased frequency of sanitation processes in all areas of the bakery, with special attention to sanitizing common touch surfaces.
- Increased direct communication with workers on the plant floor to ensure they have the information needed to keep themselves and co-workers safe.
The company has established a dedicated COVID-19 Response Team that is monitoring BIMBO facilities throughout the nation and continuously supporting workers during the health crisis.
Workers at the Hazelton bakery will be producing both bread and buns under various labels owned by BIMBO Bakeries USA. Bread and roll brands owned by the company include Sara Lee, Artesano, Mrs. Baird’s, Tia Rosa, Dempster’s and Ideal.