The UC Davis Viticulture and Enology department is world renowned for its cutting-edge facilities, industry-shaping research, and its graduates, who have gone on to become some of the most acclaimed winemakers in the world. The department also plays an important role in developing solutions to current and future challenges facing the wine industry.

This spring, we visited the department to see what was new and learn more about the unique safety challenges faced by its students, staff, and researchers. Winemaker and winery manager Leticia Chacon Rodriguez guided us through the facility and talked to us about the winemaking process and the department's strong commitment to safety.

We wrapped up the tour in a laboratory where researchers were actively testing wine samples and monitoring sugar levels, acidity, and fermentation progress. Seeing the lab in action was a reminder that while winemaking is often associated with artistry and tradition, it is equally grounded in science and research.

Our tour reinforced the truth that like with any manufacturing facility, there are inherent risks.

• Carbon dioxide
• Confined spaces
• Chemicals
• Moving equipment
• Slip hazards

These are just a few of the challenges present in the winery environment. What stood out immediately was how seriously the department approaches safety. For our team, this commitment to safety was music to our ears. It was refreshing to see safety at the forefront of such a state-of-the-art teaching and research facility, especially one that has such a significant influence on the wine industry.

The conversations throughout the day were equally valuable. Hearing directly from Leticia and her team really demonstrated how safety functions in an environment that blends research, manufacturing, and hands-on student learning. Those conversations will help us continue refining solutions and developing customized tools and checklists that support the department's already strong safety culture.

We look forward to continuing our partnership with the Viticulture and Enology department and helping make safety processes as seamless as possible, so students, staff, and researchers can stay focused on learning, innovation, and the craft of winemaking.

Author

Emily Slonim 
Lead Communications Analyst
Risk and Safety Solutions