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As we unscrew a cork this holiday season, take a moment to remember the dedicated workers behind every bottle of locally produced wine. Texas' thriving wine industry contributes $20.35 billion annually to the state's economy and generates more than 141,000 direct and indirect jobs. With job growth in wineries expected to rise, a focus on workplace safety is more vital than ever.
One of the top safety concerns in this industry involves the handling of sulfur dioxide (SO2) and potassium metabisulfite (KMS). These chemicals serve as disinfectants and preservatives during crucial stages of winemaking. SO2, a colorless, heavier-than-air gas, and KMS, a powder that releases SO2 when dissolved, are used to preserve wine, kill wild yeasts, stop fermentation, and disinfect equipment. However, these chemicals pose serious respiratory hazards to workers, ranging from airway restriction to lung diseases, if not handled properly. Fortunately, these safety tips can prevent injuries related to SO2 and KMS exposure:
1 Develop and implement an exposure control plan.
Create a detailed document that outlines each step for safe SO2 handling. Include a risk assessment, exposure limits, control measures, emergency protocols, and employee training programs. Review the plan annually and when work processes change. Share with employees and update the plan as needed.
2 Use and maintain pressure regulators on SO2 gas cylinders.
Install proper pressure regulators on SO2 gas cylinders to control gas flow safely. Conduct routine inspections, leak tests, and calibrations of regulators. Replace regulators every five years or as the manufacturer recommends.
3 Add SO2 gas gradually to reduce off-gassing.
When adding SO2 to wine, ciders, or meads, use a slow, controlled method of introducing the gas beneath the liquid surface. This reduces the release of SO2 into the air and the risk of worker exposure.
4 Wear proper personal protective equipment (PPE).
Provide at no cost to employees proper safety goggles and respirators with acid-gas cartridges. Ensure PPE is properly fitted, maintained, and worn. Train workers on how to use and care for the PPE.
5 Use strict protocols when preparing KMS solutions.
- Designate a well-ventilated area to prepare the solution.
- Provide a clearly labeled dedicated scoop for KMS handling to prevent cross-contamination.
- Add KMS to water, never the reverse, to prevent rapid release of SO2.
- Add citric acid in small amounts to minimize SO2 exposure risks.
- Seal KMS containers immediately after use and store them in a dry, well-ventilated storage area away from acids, oxidizers, and water sources.
- Properly label all KMS containers and solutions. Include the content, concentration, preparation date, and hazard information.
- Establish a system for the proper disposal of unused KMS solutions and empty containers.
6 Ensure access to and understanding of Safety Data Sheets (SDSs).
An SDS is a document that contains information about a hazardous chemical or product, including its health and physical hazards, how to handle it safely, and emergency procedures. Under the OSHA Hazard Communication Standard, SDSs must be up-to-date and readily accessible to all employees for each hazardous chemical used in the workplace. Train employees how to read and understand SDSs and update them whenever new information about the chemical’s hazards becomes available.
7 Monitor SO2 levels in the workplace.
Install SO2 detectors in areas where SO2 or KMS are used or stored. Regularly calibrate and maintain these devices. Establish clear action levels and response procedures for different SO2 concentrations.
8 Provide new hire and annual employee training.
Each year and when a new employee begins work, provide training on SO2 and KMS safety. Also cover topics such as proper equipment use, emergency response, and first aid procedures. Document all training sessions and maintain records of employee attendance.
OSHA requires these guidelines to ensure winery employee safety. Other regulations may also apply including OSHA Standards on confined space entry, hazard communication, PPE, lockout/tagout procedures, noise exposure, forklift safety, and more.
DWC provides free, confidential onsite assistance through the Occupational Safety and Health Consultation (OSHCON) Program to ensure your winery is OSHA-compliant and help you avoid violations. Contact an OSHCON consultant today at 800-252-7031, option 2, or OSHCON@tdi.texas.gov. For more information visit www.txoshcon.com or stream any of the DWC vineyard and wine safety videos.