Grape harvest season prompts call for caution

WorkSafe Victoria Executive Director of Health and Safety Len Neist said businesses should take the time to talk through safety measures with employees and discuss how they should be implemented in day-to-day operations.

“Whether you’re a wine grape, table grape or dried fruit grower, a labour hire employer or a maintenance employer, you have workplace safety obligations that must be taken seriously, and it’s important that safety remains uppermost in everyone’s mind,” Neist said.

“Recent industry growth has led to increased automation and use of harvesting machines, but if not properly guarded, these machines are dangerous.”

Last year, around 340,000 tonnes of grapes were harvested in Victoria, and much of the work involved automated grape harvesters.

“They’re highly efficient and effective machines, but one false move can mean the loss of a hand or an arm,” Neist said.

“As farms move into this busy period it’s timely to remind workplaces with machinery to review their safety processes and ensure all hazards are identified and either removed or controlled to ensure safety.”

With hot conditions and the higher proportion of casual workers, Neist also stressed the need for employers to be vigilant about safe work practices, training and induction, access to amenities and the safe transportation of workers.

“Businesses involved with the grape harvest can be working long hours over a period of many weeks or months in all kinds of weather conditions to harvest and process grapes,” Neist said.

“With this increase in activity, employers and workers must be even more vigilant to ensure the health and safety of all workers.

“Injuries from poor manual handling are an ongoing issue across all industries - table grape growers and seasonal workers need to be particularly conscious of loads to be carried and lifted, the distance to field bins and the risk of slips, trips and falls on uneven surfaces,” Neist said.

“Cuts and lacerations are a constant danger with the involvement of sharp hand tools, vines, canes and wires, along with the risk of exposure to sun and heat, so personal protective equipment and access to water, rest areas and toilets are vital.

“Casuals are often younger workers or new to the industry, so employers should have robust induction processes in place to ensure the safety of those workers. Do not assume they are aware of or can recognise known hazards.”

Top 10 grape harvesting safety tips

1. Ensure each item of plant is maintained and only operated by a competent person.
2. Ensure all workers receive instruction and training on the work they are to be involved in and that a register of training and induction records is maintained on file.
3. Where picking bags are used, individuals are advised to only carry loads within their own capability (don’t overload bags), the bags should be adjustable and users should be instructed on how to adjust and position bags for comfort, load and support.
4. Consult with workers and prepare a program with suitable rest breaks depending on factors such as weather conditions. Suitable rest breaks and hydration are important factors in managing fatigue and heat stress.
5. Ensure workers have safety boots, a broad-brimmed hat, sunscreen, safety glasses/goggles and gloves.
6. Ensure an effective communication system between plant operators, transport contractors and ground staff.
7. Ensure adequate lighting and visibility for working at night. Be seen, be safe.
8. Conduct induction training for staff and contractors.
9. Use mechanical aids such as purpose-built lifting jigs to eliminate manual handling and crushing hazards.
10. Reduce the hazard of slips, trips and falls by maintaining good housekeeping practices. Use three points of contact when exiting large vehicles, plant and stairs.

Comprehensive information can be found in the WorkSafe Horticulture Safety Guide. For further information, call the WorkSafe Advisory Service on 1800 136 089.