Vineyard workers face injury risks on the job
If you are one of the thousands who work in California’s vineyards, you may feel a sense of pride when you see someone enjoying a glass of domestic wine. Truly the fruit of your labors, the wine represents your hard work and dedication to a fragile crop that is subject to many adversities. Vulnerable to weather and natural disasters, a vineyard requires attention to every element, from soil to pests.
However, as a vineyard laborer, you are also vulnerable. When a crop is ripe and ready, the focus of your employer may be on getting the grapes off the vine and ready for the winemaking process. This can mean overlooking some of the dangers on the job that place you at risk for illness and injury.
Common hazards on a vineyard
Every job comes with risks, but your risk may be higher if your employer uses your immigration status to take advantage of you. It is important to understand that even if you do not have documentation to be in the U.S. lawfully, you have the right to medical care and compensation if you are injured on the job. Some of the common injuries you may face working on a vineyard include the following:
- Back and neck strain from prolonged bending
- Carpal tunnel from overuse of pruners
- Plantar fasciitis from long hours on your feet
- Cuts, sometimes serious, from pruning tools
- Allergic reactions to insect and spider bites
- Illnesses, including skin diseases, from exposure to pesticides
- Illness and injury from exposure to extreme weather conditions, especially heat
