South Africa Wine Technical Yearbook 2025

Example: Store products close to the area where needed. If this is not possible, at least ensure that there is a trolley on hand to transport the required items to where they are used. An even better option is to use forklifts for heavy goods where possible. Environmental factors Ventilation and air quality • Implement proper ventilation to ensure good air circulation, and monitor for harmful gases, like CO 2 and SO 2 . This also applies to instances where personnel work with fine powder, like certain filter powders. It is critically important that personnel wear the necessary masks to prevent inhaling harmful substances. • Opening doors to improve ventilation of fresh air in the cellar is recommended. Alternatively, fans can also be used to create extra air movement. Temperature • Be aware of the temperature at which workers perform their tasks. It may be necessary to provide extra warm clothes in consistently extremely cold areas. The same applies to exceptionally hot areas. An umbrella for the sun or water misters for hot areas can make conditions more tolerable for personnel. • Awnings for loading trucks are obviously ideal, but if this is not an option, invest in good quality protective clothing, like umbrellas, rain jackets and water shoes. Noise reduction • Reduce noise exposure to machinery and other possible sources to prevent hearing damage and other health issues. Identify areas where hearing protection is required, and make sure personnel follow the rules.

themselves in an uncomfortable body posture, having to exert unnecessary effort. Example: If possible, leave enough space around tanks to enable a person to move freely around the tank. This helps to clean tanks, floors and walls with greater ease. Lighting Provide sufficient, evenly spread lighting that minimises shadows and reflections. This helps to reduce visual fatigue and prevent unnecessary mistakes. Lighting technology is much better today than it was 10 or even five years ago. New light bulbs are more effective and use less electricity. With correct planning, lights can be strategically placed to ensure that there are no dark areas in the cellar. Also, keep one or two mobile lights close at hand for use in case of an emergency. Workflow and task management Divide work activities strategically to avoid prolonged periods of repetitive movements, which can lead to metabolic stress and fatigue. Alternation between intense physical labour and less physically demanding tasks is important. Equipment design The use of ergonomic equipment and furniture ensures proper posture and reduces muscle tension. Example: Ensure that tables and surfaces used by personnel to work on are at the correct height. Use high-quality wheels (that are properly maintained) for equipment that is moved around regularly, like pumps and mobile carts or containers. Workflow optimation Design a streamlined workflow that allows for the efficient execution of tasks, connecting different actions and devices in a logical manner to limit human mistakes and increase productivity.

• It is preferable to isolate noisy equipment, like centrifuges, in a room with soundproof walls.

Summary Consult professional service providers that can be used to quantify most of the abovementioned aspects with accurate monitors, for example, noise pollution or light intensity. In most cases, cellar personnel are also able to point out areas where improvements can be made. Therefore, regularly designate a specific time to meet with the team and discuss tasks and procedures, and to identify areas where improvements are required. 

Reference https://www.wineland.co.za/benefits-of-ergonomics/

For more information, contact Pieter Badenhorst at pieterb@fortheloveofwine.co.za.

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TECHNICAL YEARBOOK 2025