Brewers Resources
Welcome WBG members! We’ve pulled together the following resources to provide a one-stop shop for brewers looking for information on compliance and best practices. We will continue to add info to this page, so check back often! If there is a topic you’d like to see covered, please contact Shawna at shawna@washingtonbrewersguild.org or Daniel at daniel@washingtonbrewersguild.org
Disclaimer: Nothing in this section should be construed as legal advice. The WBG encourages its members to seek legal advice or consult with an LCB agent with WA state liquor law compliance questions.
WBG Bylaws
Click on the headings below for more information.
11:30am Sessions
West Coast IPA is Alive and Well
Speakers:
Jesse Brown – Formula Brewing
Andrew Schwartz – Human People
Brad Benson – Stoup Brewing
Jake Watt – Trapdoor Brewing
Robyn Schumacher – Stoup Brewing
Description:
Let’s talk about all things West Coast IPA – Cover old, modern, and postmodern West Coast IPA.
WBG Summit Marketing is Dead
Speaker:
Bryson Foster, Fosters Creative
Description:
Marketing as we know it is dead. End of conversation. So, what’s next? As technology makes content easier to create, everyone will soon look and sound the same. What sets you apart? What makes you different? Join Bryson as he shares lessons from the journey as a Marketing & Experience Agency Co-Founder, how we’re guiding clients into the next era, the shirst we’re making ourselves, and the impact we’re seeing. Don’t make the shift too late. Spoiler Alert: The good news is better than you think.
Winning In Distro
Speaker:
Derek Smith, Small Batch Standard
Description:
Stephanie Artino, CPA – Artino Business Advisors (CPA/Owner)
Description:
1:45pm Sessions
Benefits of Legal Change in 2025
Speakers:
Description:
This presentation will examine leading changes impacting the beer marketplace, including changes to the Internal Revenue Code pursuant to the Big Beautiful Bill. These changes will be studied with potential positive applications to brewery business operations in mind. As a bonus, the rapidly evolving legalities of THC/hemp beverages will be explored as a possible product category alternatives.
Brewing Smarter – Tech Behind the Tap
Speaker:
Nicholas Berger, The Good Society, Owner
Description:
It’s hard to decide whether to invest in technology. And once you’ve decided to make that leap, it is even harder to make sure you get the technology that meets your needs. This seminar will walk through tech in your brewery and your taproom, how to decide if you need it, and how to select the best tech for you your needs. Other materials: BRD & Brewing Smarter – Tech Behind the Tap – Scoring Matrix
It’s Rad to Collab Panel
Speakers:
Description:
Join this panel as they discuss all the ways breweries collaborate with their fellow breweries, local charities and businesses, artists, and more!
Kevin Davey, Heater Allen/Gold Dot Beer
Description:
I want to revisit Michael Lewis’s talk at CBC 2008 titled “Drinkability” and see what came true, then outline the “millennial push (2008-2020) and reflect on what works and doesn’t, then make a case for what we should do in the future
3pm Sessions
Raw Materials Sensory and Improving Quality on the Supplier Side: A Case Study of Galaxy Hops
Speakers:
Jeff Dailey – Sensory Manager, John I Haas
Steve Luke – Head Brewer/Owner, Cloudburst Brewing
Colin Lenfesty – Founder and Head Brewer, Holy Mountain Brewing Co
Description:
Hops are one of the most expensive raw materials a brewery can contract and, unfortunately, varietal quality can wax and wane significantly between crop years. Additionally, high value, exotic cultivars can experience long-term declines due to expanding to meet demand without instituting quality control mechanisms. This particular issue is the same for many breweries when when expanding flagship beers. The solutions for both instances: (a) instituting a modern raw materials sensory program to identify non-conforming product before used in the brewery and diagnosing root cause after the fact; and (b) forming strong, collaborative relationships with suppliers (Farmer <-> Broker, Broker <-> Brewer) in order to support incremental, year over year improvements in quality. To demonstrate the value of this process, Galaxy Hops from Hop Products Australia (HPA) will be used as a case study, tracking how feedback from brewers to John I Haas instigated a years-long sensory-based effort, working with HPA to restore quality and integrity to the brand.
Speakers:Pamela Brulotte – Founder, Icicle Brewing
Description:
Barley 2025: Crop Insights and Critical COA Specifications for Brewers
Speakers:
Adam D Hieronymus; Territory Sales Manager, Country Malt Group
Description:
The Courage to Show
Speakers:
Description:
- Components of Open Book Management
- The Iron Horse style of Open Book Management
- First 3 steps to Showing
3pm Sessions
Raw Materials Sensory and Improving Quality on the Supplier Side: A Case Study of Galaxy Hops
Speakers:
Jeff Dailey – Sensory Manager, John I Haas
Steve Luke – Head Brewer/Owner, Cloudburst Brewing
Colin Lenfesty – Founder and Head Brewer, Holy Mountain Brewing Co
Description:
Hops are one of the most expensive raw materials a brewery can contract and, unfortunately, varietal quality can wax and wane significantly between crop years. Additionally, high value, exotic cultivars can experience long-term declines due to expanding to meet demand without instituting quality control mechanisms. This particular issue is the same for many breweries when when expanding flagship beers. The solutions for both instances: (a) instituting a modern raw materials sensory program to identify non-conforming product before used in the brewery and diagnosing root cause after the fact; and (b) forming strong, collaborative relationships with suppliers (Farmer <-> Broker, Broker <-> Brewer) in order to support incremental, year over year improvements in quality. To demonstrate the value of this process, Galaxy Hops from Hop Products Australia (HPA) will be used as a case study, tracking how feedback from brewers to John I Haas instigated a years-long sensory-based effort, working with HPA to restore quality and integrity to the brand.
Speakers:Pamela Brulotte – Founder, Icicle Brewing
Description:
Barley 2025: Crop Insights and Critical COA Specifications for Brewers
Speakers:
Adam D Hieronymus; Territory Sales Manager, Country Malt Group
Description:
The Courage to Show
Speakers:
Description:
- Components of Open Book Management
- The Iron Horse style of Open Book Management
- First 3 steps to Showing
4:15pm Sessions
A Look in the Mirror: An Inside and Out View of Your Brewery’s Customer Experience
Speaker:
Oce Eagan, Blind Tiger Design
Description:
You know your brewery best, but do you know how others experience your brand? Multifaceted, across countless touchpoints, your brand lives out in the world, and it is increasingly difficult to maintain clarity on how it is perceived, on shelves, on tap, in your taproom, online… customers, accounts – and yes, distributors, all have opinions. Critically looking at every brand touchpoint, we will walk you through our brand audit process and show you the steps to self-assess your brand experience out in the market and within your taproom walls. With opportunities and challenges identified, we will share practical tips and tricks for updating your brand’s experience before it needs a full rebrand overhaul.
Brewery Operations Move Fast. Your Insights & Actions Should Too!
Speakers:
Jeremy Carney, Central Coast Analytics
Dru Ernst, Founder & President of Dru Bru
Description:
HR Best Practices for the Craft Brewer
Speaker:
Description:
Speakers:
Brian Estes, LINC Malt
Matthew Hanson, Whistlepunk Brewing
John Marti, Douglas Lager
Leslie Shore, Cold Stream Malt and Grain
Rachel Verhey-Goicoechea, Cold Stream Malt and Grain
Description:
2024 Summit Keynote
Dr. J Jackson-Beckham – Director of Social Impact, Brewers Association
Educational Sessions
Forging Financials From Beskar WA
Speaker: Audra Gaiziunas (Brewed For Her Ledger, LLC)
Description:
In this Star Wars-themed technical financial talk, learn which financial ratios are most applicable to calculate now, where to find the data to calculate each, what each means, and how you can affect those numbers to hit sustainable benchmarks. Take a deeper dive into the debt service coverage ratio and learn how to perform a breakeven analysis for your specific brewery economic model. Gain a greater grasp on what goes into an overhead calculation and how we should utilize that number as a part of our pricing strategy. Learn where to look for possible signs of financial distress before the symptoms are felt.
All attendees of this session will receive an innovation costing Excel workbook to take home to their respective breweries.
Supporting Watershed and Ecosystem Conservation through Brewery/Partner Collaboration
Speakers:
Levi Wyatt – Corporate Social Responsibility Manager, Yakima Chief Hops
Layne Carter – Operations Manager, Aslan Brewing Company
Chris Chappell – Brewshed Alliance Director, Washington Wild
Rachel Verhey-Goicoechea – Director of Relationships, Cold Stream Malt & Grain
Description: This panel discussion will explore how breweries can become involved in resource conservation efforts around the PNW. From discussing how breweries can forge new partnerships with nonprofits regionally to support a myriad of conservation initiatives, describing how breweries can be powerful drivers of how hops and grains are stewarded by growers by sourcing conservation-focused materials, to how supporting these efforts may lead to a market advantage with new consumers, this panel will look to foster an educated discussion targeted at breweries. Ideally a Q&A session to follow.
Kevin Davey, owner & brewer Gold Dot Beer
Julie Rhodes, Not Your Hobby Marketing
Maura Hardman, Seattle Cider Co
Beer Competitions and Judging – Behind the Scenes
Speakers:
Jesse Brown, Formula Brewing
Barry Chan, Lucky Envelope Brewing
Mark Emiley, Washington Beer Awards
Description:
This talk will describe what goes into professional judging at competitions. Get a sneak peak behind the scenes and what to look for in feedback. The panel will further go over how to present your beers in a competition and why you should get involved in judging.
The World’s Most Relevant Beer Talk
Speaker:
Julia Herz, American Homebrewers Association Executive DirectorDescription:Description: Beer is the world’s most popular fermented beverage. Do you know why? Will it always be that way? Don’t miss this opportunity to discuss and dissect the beverage of beer with Julia Herz, beer educator, brewer, and Executive Director of the American Homebrewers Association based in Boulder, Colorado, USA. Attendees of this session will demystify and intensify our collective appreciation, drill down on why we like and don’t like certain styles, and investigate the beverage’s relevance and future. Herz will also demonstrate how beer’s popularity is interdependent with the art of brewing and how those who ferment establish an authentic affection connection to geography, agriculture, history, science, culture and most important…community.
Speaker: Mike Drumm, Attorney / Founder of BeerAttorney.com
Get Seen. Look Keen. Tips for Social Media Pics and Videos
Speakers:
Michael Perozzo of ZZeppelin, Overthinkr & Vice Beer
Sean Burke of ZZeppelin (formerly The Commons & Von Ebert)Description:
Description: Social Media strategies that get seen and photography tips to look keen. We’ll present effective strategies to get seen via current trends with tips on how to make content creation easier and more progressional using the phone in your pocket.
Description: You’ve started your own brewery but how do you manage your most important asset…the people. Building an HR program can seem unnecessary and daunting but putting together crucial programs will help you to build the company culture you truly desire.
Andrew Pytel, Single Hill Brewing
Matt Hanson, Whistle Punk Brewing
Collin Christianson, Icicle Brewing Company
Description: West Coast Pils… what is it? Does it even exist? Join our panelists as they discuss the facts, their opinions, and their theories on West Coast Pils as a current style, the path that led to this style, and where it’s going in the future. Brewing techniques and ingredients will be covered, as well as qualitative expectations of the style, an open discussion on the reality of this “new” beer style, and if it’s here to stay.
Speaker: Daniel Olson, Executive Director Washington Brewers Guild
—
Up Your Taproom’s Game with Cheese-
Courtney Johnson (PhD, ACS CCP, ACS CCSE), Co-Owner, Street Cheese LLC
Rikki Welz, Sensory Scientist, John I Haas
Description: Beer and cheese are the best pairing partners, but many customers don’t know it yet. Add interest to your taproom offerings with a guided cheese and beer tasting that transcends grocery-store options to highlight your brews through a focus on sensory evaluation skills and pairing techniques. Learning objectives for will include: 1) sourcing and selecting a pairing menu; 2) tips for leading a tasting, including sensory techniques that apply to beer and cheese; 3) how to market a tasting event; 4) other ways to incorporate cheese into the taproom events schedule to bring in customers and sell more beer.
Sarah Burrington, Dru Bru, Taproom Operations Manager
Taylor Gale, Dru Bru, HR & Operations Manager
- Speaker: Tessa Schilaty, Yakima Chief Hops
- Speakers: Brian Estes, LINC Malt, Adam Hieronymus and Jon Mendrick, Country Malt Group
- Speakers: Layne Carter, Austin Umbinetti-Hutton, Jess Keller Poole, Aslan Brewing; Chris Chappell, WA Wild
- Speakers: Steve Luke, Cloudburst Brewing; Nate Crane, Chuckanut Brewery; John Marti, Lowercase Brewing
- Speakers: Ryan Downey, Draft Punk; Jess Keller Poole, Aslan Brewing / Seattle Beer School
- Speaker: Jackie K. St. Louis, D-Fine Concepts Consulting
- Ashley Hale, Ryan Christian, Yakima Chief Ranches; Jeff Daly, John I Haas; Shanleigh Thomson, Shan.Ferments
- Oceania Eagan, Blind Tiger Design
- Speakers: Julie Rhodes, Not Your Hobby Marketing Solutions, Madeline Corn, Don Stewart, E9 Brewing
- Speakers: Members of the Washington Brewers Guild’s DEIA Committee
- Speakers: Luz Gonzales-Virgen, WA Department of Labor and Industries
- Speakers: Stacey O’Connor, Headless Mumby Brewing
- Speakers: Laura Burns, Omega Yeast / Matt Edwards, Georgetown Brewing
- Speakers: Adam Robbings, Reuben’s Brews, Derek Smith, Small Batch Standard
March 2, 2023 - WA State Department of L&I Small Business Newsletter: Winter 2023 Edition- Resources
Can’t Find Your Workers’ Comp Rates? Try Verify
Make Sure Your Job Postings are Meeting the New Requirements
Skip the Line and Schedule Online
Is Your Business in Compliance with Equal Pay and Opportunities Act (EPOA) Requirements?
Help L&I Better Communicate with Small Business Employers Like You
Do You Know How to Assess Your COVID-19 Hazards at Work?
Lifting, carrying, pushing and pulling are tasks that can injure workers, resulting in pain and possibly time off the job. L&I and Oregon OSHA teamed up with SAIF to develop the BEST way to prevent these problems before anyone gets hurt.
Using the Brainstorm Ergonomic Solutions Tool (BEST), workers and employers answer a series of questions based on sources of ergonomic risk to find ways to make lifting, carrying, pushing and pulling safer. It can be as simple as rearranging a storage area to reduce lifting or raising a counter top to reduce bending.
Workers are the experts in their jobs. When they come up with solutions, it can make them more invested and excited about creating a safer workplace. BEST helps them do that.
If you would like further help in reducing ergonomic hazards in your workplace, request a consultation. It’s free and we can even meet with you remotely if you prefer.
Washington State Labor and Industries Education Minute: COVID 19 Basic Requirements for All Workplaces
The Washington Brewers Guild has partnered with the Washington State Department of Labor & Industries (L&I) for 2022-2023 to provide our members and the whole WA brewery industry with educational opportunities and consistent communications on our state’s laws and rules around wages, labor practices, workplace safety, and all the elements of running a business that are regulated by L&I. For this week’s update, we bring you a reminder of what L&I requires of all employers related to COVID-19.
At a minimum, all employers must do the following:
- Keep workers known or suspected to have COVID-19 from working around others by following appropriate isolation guidance as outlined by the Washington State Department of Health (DOH).
- Provide hand washing facilities and supplies, and regularly clean and sanitize surfaces.
- Educate workers about COVID-19 prevention in the language they understand best.
- Provide written notice of potential COVID-19 exposure within one business day to all workers, and the employers of subcontracted workers, who were at the same work site as a person who tested positive (without disclosing the person’s identity).
- Report COVID-19 outbreaks to L&I within one business day when they involve 10 or more workers at a workplace or job site with more than 50 workers.
- Address COVID-19 notification, reporting, and prevention measures in the employer’s workplace-specific, written Accident Prevention Program or equivalent safety program.
- Allow workers to voluntarily wear masks (respirators, medical procedure masks, or cloth face coverings) and personal protective equipment (PPE) as long as it doesn’t create a safety or security issue.
Where masks are still required:
- In health care settings, including long-term care settings (home/hospice) and correctional facilities.
The healthcare mask sign is also available in Russian, Spanish & Vietnamese.
A new provision in the Equal Pay & Opportunities Act that took effect Jan. 1 requires employers with 15 or more employees to include specific wage or salary details, a description of benefits, and a description of other compensation when they post a job opportunity.
To make sure businesses know exactly what’s required, the Washington State Department of Labor & Industries (L&I) has rolled out detailed information and examples, and has published a new policy to help employers meet the new standard.
The administrative policy connected with Senate Bill 5761, adopted in 2022, provides examples of what pay information employers must include, and explains which job postings have to meet the new requirements.
“Pay transparency is important to eliminating gender-based pay discrepancies,” said Celeste Monahan, assistant director for Fraud Prevention and Labor Standards. “This policy offers employers important guidance examples so they can meet these requirements.”
“We’ve developed real-life examples so employers and workers know exactly what to expect,” said Bryan Templeton, Employment Standards program manager. “We’re here to help employers meet the requirements and to ensure job-seekers know exactly what they’re getting into before they apply.”
Webinar to provide more information
To provide further information about the requirements, L&I’s Employment Standards program is holding free webinars. Employers can sign up for a session on the agency’s Workshops and Training Center web page.
Webinar topics include: What constitutes a job posting, what information must be included in a job posting, what constitutes a wage scale or salary range as well as benefits and other compensation. Participants will also learn about free consultations the program offers employers.
The job posting requirements are part of the state’s gender discrimination law. The act prohibits pay discrimination based on gender and promotes fairness among workers by addressing business practices that contribute to income disparities. Employees and job applicants have rights under this law.
The policy also provides guidance on the department’s existing interpretations of the act.
The state’s minimum wage for 2023 has increased to $15.74 per hour. That applies to workers age 16 and older. Employers may pay 85 percent of the minimum wage —$13.38 per hour — to workers ages 14-15.
Cities can set a higher hourly minimum wage. For example, Seattle and SeaTac both have higher wages.
For other new laws in effect as of January 1, 2023, click here.
Most businesses are required to post their OSHA Log summary from February 1st to April 30th.
This summary must be posted in each establishment where notices to employees are customarily posted, such as next to the required posters for your workplace.
Does that include your business?
Small employers and low-risk businesses may be exempt from these requirements if:
They have 10 or fewer employees at all times during the previous calendar year at all of their combined business locations.
The business is included on the industry exemption list in Table 1 under WAC 296-27-00105.
Note: An exemption does not apply if the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), OSHA, or DOSH notifies you to comply.
Resources to help
2023 Increase to Workers’ Compensation Rates
2023 Salary Thresholds to Meet Overtime Exemptions
Schedule Your Next Appointment at Our Office Locations
Poster Scams: Good News and Some Tips
L&I Releases New Administrative Policy on Equal Pay and Opportunities Act (EPOA)
Help L&I Improve Programs Offered to Employers by Completing a Paid Survey
Return to Work Program Made Easy With New Website
COVID-19 Requirements in Effect (Updated Oct. 31)
2022 WA CRAFT BEER INDUSTRY SUMMIT PRESENTATIONS ARE NOW AVAILABLE:
Here’s the link to the PDF’s of PowerPoints from the Summit educational breakout sessions and Keynote Speaker presentation.
Washington minimum wage for 2023 to be $15.74 per hour. For more information visit this link.
Here’s a link to the Brewery Safety DOSH presentation PDF, and the following links were shared during this webinar:
Create a Workplace Safety Program
Schedule a No-Cost Consultation
Help for Small Business
Questions? Contact: David Conley – Region 1 Consultation Manager at (425) 290-2101, Email: CODA235@lni.wa.gov
The Washington Brewers Guild has partnered with the Washington State Department of Labor & Industries (L&I) for 2022-2023 to provide our members and the whole WA brewery industry with educational opportunities and consistent communications on our state’s laws and rules around wages, labor practices, workplace safety, and all the elements of running a business that are regulated by L&I. For this week’s update, we bring you a reminder of what L&I requires of all employers related to COVID-19.
At a minimum, all employers must do the following:
- Keep workers known or suspected to have COVID-19 from working around others by following appropriate isolation guidance as outlined by the Washington State Department of Health (DOH).
- Provide hand washing facilities and supplies, and regularly clean and sanitize surfaces.
- Educate workers about COVID-19 prevention in the language they understand best.
- Provide written notice of potential COVID-19 exposure within one business day to all workers, and the employers of subcontracted workers, who were at the same work site as a person who tested positive (without disclosing the person’s identity).
- Report COVID-19 outbreaks to L&I within one business day when they involve 10 or more workers at a workplace or job site with more than 50 workers.
- Address COVID-19 notification, reporting, and prevention measures in the employer’s workplace-specific, written Accident Prevention Program or equivalent safety program.
- Allow workers to voluntarily wear masks (respirators, medical procedure masks, or cloth face coverings) and personal protective equipment (PPE) as long as it doesn’t create a safety or security issue.
Where masks are still required:
- In health care settings, including long-term care settings (home/hospice) and correctional facilities.
July 29, 2022 – L&I News – Outdoor workers have protections as heat wave sweeps Washington – Click here
Thank you to those who were able to join us for the April 13, 2021 meeting. For those who were unable to join us, we missed you and look forward to seeing you at another guild event soon!
Here are the meeting minutes, and you’ll find the meeting presentation here, which includes a legislative update, Healthy WA reopenings info, federal resources round-up, and info on our upcoming Multiplayer IPA Guild Collab.
Also, here are some links to additional information requested during the meeting:
Healthy WA Metrics Dashboard by County
BA Webinar on Restaurant Revitalization Fund (RRF)
Coronavirus/COVID 19 – WA Brewery Emergency Resources link: Coronavirus/COVID 19 – WA Brewery Emergency Resources link
The following LCB PowerPoint presentation covers:
- Moneys Worth to Retailers
- Branded Promotional Materials Guidelines
- Point of Sale Requirements
- Advertising
- Brewers Nights (Tap Takeovers) Do’s and Don’ts
- Public & Civic Events/Special Occasion Licenses
Many breweries have asked us when/what brewers can and cannot donate to charities. We asked the LCB for giving guidelines and here’s their answer:
- Breweries can donate branded promotional items to all non-profits. This is to be used only by the licensee and not to be given away to consumers
- Brewers can donate beer only to 501c3 and 501c6
- A 501c3 or c6 without a special occasion license can receive branded promotional items. They can also receive gift cards, cannot just be specific to alcohol
- Breweries can donate items to be auctioned as long as the price of the auctioned items starts at above cost of production
Breweries are very generous and donate to many charities and charitable events in their communities. Many breweries have found that requiring charities to fill out a donation request form has been helpful in managing the numerous requests they receive. Here’s a template for donation requests you may adapt for your brewery:
A special occasion license allows a bona fide nonprofit organization to sell liquor at a specific time, date and place. Examples of events include fundraising dinners, gala events, auctions, and wine tastings.
NOTE FOR BREWERIES: You may donate beer to a 501 (c) 3 or 501 (c) 6 non-profit organization holding a special occasion permit.
Breweries CAN (but are not required to):
- Donate beer or sell beer at wholesale to non-profits with a 501 (c) 3 or 6 status
- Pay the non-profit special occasion licensee a reasonable booth fee for the event
- Provide signage, programs and brand advertising
- Pay a 3rd party directly for advertising
- Pour at events that are considered beer exhibitions (LCB test: event has the word beer/brew or similar- if in doubt, check with your local LCB agent)
- Receive returns from the non-profit
Breweries CANNOT:
- Provide money directly or indirectly for the event (except as outlined above)
- Sponsor the event
- Receive part of the proceeds from the event
- Pay a promoter acting on behalf of a non-profit
Manufacturers (Breweries, Wineries, Distilleries) Checklist:
Non-Profits Checklist:
http://www.liq.wa.gov/publications/licensing/flow_charts/Non-Profit_Window_v2.pdf
Special Occasion License FAQs:
http://www.liq.wa.gov/enforcement/special-occasion-license-faq
A banquet permit is a permit you apply for that allows the service and consumption of liquor at a private, invitation-only banquet or gathering held in a public place or business. Examples include weddings, company banquets, retirement parties, and club, organization or church events.
NOTE FOR BREWERIES: Organizations holding a banquet permit must PURCHASE beer for their event. Charities seeking donated beer must obtain a special occasion license (see above info).
Banquet Permit Checklist:
http://www.liq.wa.gov/publications/licensing/flow_charts/Banquet_Permit_Checklist_v1.pdf
During the 2016 Legislative Session, the WBG successfully obtained legislation creating a special permit for brewers to sample and sell beer of their own production at a private event location that does not hold a current liquor license. Brewers can hold up to 12 events a year. The permit takes 10 days to process and costs $11.00.
Permit Application:
Getting Started – Courtesy of the Brewers Association:
Brewers Association FDA Article
FDA Food Safety Modernization Act Overview:
http://www.fda.gov/downloads/F ood/GuidanceRegulation/FSMA/UC M461834.pdf
FSMA Updates:
http://www.fda.gov/Food/Guidan ceRegulation/FSMA/default.htm
FSMA Frequently Asked Questions:
http://www.fda.gov/Food/Guidan ceRegulation/FSMA/ucm247559.ht m#PC_Rules
FSMA Training:
http://www.fda.gov/Food/Guidan ceRegulation/FSMA/ucm461513.ht m
Assistance:
For inquiries and assistance implementing FSMA, visit:
http://www.fda.gov/Food/Guidan ceRegulation/FSMA/ucm459719.ht m
Brewers Association Resource – Good Manufacturing Practices for Craft Brewers:
Brewers Association Safety Ambassador PowerPoint Presentation:
Confined Spaces Best Practices:
https://www.brewersassociation.org/best-practices/safety/confined-spaces/
Protective Clothing Best Practices:
https://www.brewersassociation.org/best-practices/safety/protective-clothing-for-brewery-workers/
Powered Industrial Trucks Best Practices:
https://www.brewersassociation.org/educational-publications/powered-industrial-trucks/
Best Management Practice for Surviving an OSHA Inspection:
Free online brewery safety training:
https://www.brewersassociation.org/best-practices/safety/free-online-brewery-safety-training/
What Brewers Can Do:
Draught Quality Warm Storage Guidelines:
Brewers Association Draught Quality Manual:
https://www.brewersassociation.org/educational-publications/draught-quality/
Questions about entering into contracts with distributors? The Washington Beer and Wine Distributors Association put together a helpful checklist for brewers to consider when entering into agreements with distributors.
The WSLCB does not require a COLA for beer sold in-state only. HOWEVER, there are labeling mandates, as well as basic product filing with the state required for compliance.
Here are the product labels/keg collar compliance guidelines for beer sold within WA State lines only:
https://www.washingtonbrewersguild.org/wp-content/uploads/2019/08/WBG-Label-Guidelines.pdf
March 2, 2023 - WA State Department of L&I Small Business Newsletter: Winter 2023 Edition- Resources
Can’t Find Your Workers’ Comp Rates? Try Verify
Make Sure Your Job Postings are Meeting the New Requirements
Skip the Line and Schedule Online
Is Your Business in Compliance with Equal Pay and Opportunities Act (EPOA) Requirements?
Help L&I Better Communicate with Small Business Employers Like You
Do You Know How to Assess Your COVID-19 Hazards at Work?
Lifting, carrying, pushing and pulling are tasks that can injure workers, resulting in pain and possibly time off the job. L&I and Oregon OSHA teamed up with SAIF to develop the BEST way to prevent these problems before anyone gets hurt.
Using the Brainstorm Ergonomic Solutions Tool (BEST), workers and employers answer a series of questions based on sources of ergonomic risk to find ways to make lifting, carrying, pushing and pulling safer. It can be as simple as rearranging a storage area to reduce lifting or raising a counter top to reduce bending.
Workers are the experts in their jobs. When they come up with solutions, it can make them more invested and excited about creating a safer workplace. BEST helps them do that.
If you would like further help in reducing ergonomic hazards in your workplace, request a consultation. It’s free and we can even meet with you remotely if you prefer.
Washington State Labor and Industries Education Minute: COVID 19 Basic Requirements for All Workplaces
The Washington Brewers Guild has partnered with the Washington State Department of Labor & Industries (L&I) for 2022-2023 to provide our members and the whole WA brewery industry with educational opportunities and consistent communications on our state’s laws and rules around wages, labor practices, workplace safety, and all the elements of running a business that are regulated by L&I. For this week’s update, we bring you a reminder of what L&I requires of all employers related to COVID-19.
At a minimum, all employers must do the following:
- Keep workers known or suspected to have COVID-19 from working around others by following appropriate isolation guidance as outlined by the Washington State Department of Health (DOH).
- Provide hand washing facilities and supplies, and regularly clean and sanitize surfaces.
- Educate workers about COVID-19 prevention in the language they understand best.
- Provide written notice of potential COVID-19 exposure within one business day to all workers, and the employers of subcontracted workers, who were at the same work site as a person who tested positive (without disclosing the person’s identity).
- Report COVID-19 outbreaks to L&I within one business day when they involve 10 or more workers at a workplace or job site with more than 50 workers.
- Address COVID-19 notification, reporting, and prevention measures in the employer’s workplace-specific, written Accident Prevention Program or equivalent safety program.
- Allow workers to voluntarily wear masks (respirators, medical procedure masks, or cloth face coverings) and personal protective equipment (PPE) as long as it doesn’t create a safety or security issue.
Where masks are still required:
- In health care settings, including long-term care settings (home/hospice) and correctional facilities.
The healthcare mask sign is also available in Russian, Spanish & Vietnamese.
A new provision in the Equal Pay & Opportunities Act that took effect Jan. 1 requires employers with 15 or more employees to include specific wage or salary details, a description of benefits, and a description of other compensation when they post a job opportunity.
To make sure businesses know exactly what’s required, the Washington State Department of Labor & Industries (L&I) has rolled out detailed information and examples, and has published a new policy to help employers meet the new standard.
The administrative policy connected with Senate Bill 5761, adopted in 2022, provides examples of what pay information employers must include, and explains which job postings have to meet the new requirements.
“Pay transparency is important to eliminating gender-based pay discrepancies,” said Celeste Monahan, assistant director for Fraud Prevention and Labor Standards. “This policy offers employers important guidance examples so they can meet these requirements.”
“We’ve developed real-life examples so employers and workers know exactly what to expect,” said Bryan Templeton, Employment Standards program manager. “We’re here to help employers meet the requirements and to ensure job-seekers know exactly what they’re getting into before they apply.”
Webinar to provide more information
To provide further information about the requirements, L&I’s Employment Standards program is holding free webinars. Employers can sign up for a session on the agency’s Workshops and Training Center web page.
Webinar topics include: What constitutes a job posting, what information must be included in a job posting, what constitutes a wage scale or salary range as well as benefits and other compensation. Participants will also learn about free consultations the program offers employers.
The job posting requirements are part of the state’s gender discrimination law. The act prohibits pay discrimination based on gender and promotes fairness among workers by addressing business practices that contribute to income disparities. Employees and job applicants have rights under this law.
The policy also provides guidance on the department’s existing interpretations of the act.
The state’s minimum wage for 2023 has increased to $15.74 per hour. That applies to workers age 16 and older. Employers may pay 85 percent of the minimum wage —$13.38 per hour — to workers ages 14-15.
Cities can set a higher hourly minimum wage. For example, Seattle and SeaTac both have higher wages.
For other new laws in effect as of January 1, 2023, click here.
Most businesses are required to post their OSHA Log summary from February 1st to April 30th.
This summary must be posted in each establishment where notices to employees are customarily posted, such as next to the required posters for your workplace.
Does that include your business?
Small employers and low-risk businesses may be exempt from these requirements if:
They have 10 or fewer employees at all times during the previous calendar year at all of their combined business locations.
The business is included on the industry exemption list in Table 1 under WAC 296-27-00105.
Note: An exemption does not apply if the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), OSHA, or DOSH notifies you to comply.
Resources to help
2023 Increase to Workers’ Compensation Rates
2023 Salary Thresholds to Meet Overtime Exemptions
Schedule Your Next Appointment at Our Office Locations
Poster Scams: Good News and Some Tips
L&I Releases New Administrative Policy on Equal Pay and Opportunities Act (EPOA)
Help L&I Improve Programs Offered to Employers by Completing a Paid Survey
Return to Work Program Made Easy With New Website
COVID-19 Requirements in Effect (Updated Oct. 31)
2022 WA CRAFT BEER INDUSTRY SUMMIT PRESENTATIONS ARE NOW AVAILABLE:
Here’s the link to the PDF’s of PowerPoints from the Summit educational breakout sessions and Keynote Speaker presentation.
Washington minimum wage for 2023 to be $15.74 per hour. For more information visit this link.
Here’s a link to the Brewery Safety DOSH presentation PDF, and the following links were shared during this webinar:
Create a Workplace Safety Program
Schedule a No-Cost Consultation
Help for Small Business
Questions? Contact: David Conley – Region 1 Consultation Manager at (425) 290-2101, Email: CODA235@lni.wa.gov
The Washington Brewers Guild has partnered with the Washington State Department of Labor & Industries (L&I) for 2022-2023 to provide our members and the whole WA brewery industry with educational opportunities and consistent communications on our state’s laws and rules around wages, labor practices, workplace safety, and all the elements of running a business that are regulated by L&I. For this week’s update, we bring you a reminder of what L&I requires of all employers related to COVID-19.
At a minimum, all employers must do the following:
- Keep workers known or suspected to have COVID-19 from working around others by following appropriate isolation guidance as outlined by the Washington State Department of Health (DOH).
- Provide hand washing facilities and supplies, and regularly clean and sanitize surfaces.
- Educate workers about COVID-19 prevention in the language they understand best.
- Provide written notice of potential COVID-19 exposure within one business day to all workers, and the employers of subcontracted workers, who were at the same work site as a person who tested positive (without disclosing the person’s identity).
- Report COVID-19 outbreaks to L&I within one business day when they involve 10 or more workers at a workplace or job site with more than 50 workers.
- Address COVID-19 notification, reporting, and prevention measures in the employer’s workplace-specific, written Accident Prevention Program or equivalent safety program.
- Allow workers to voluntarily wear masks (respirators, medical procedure masks, or cloth face coverings) and personal protective equipment (PPE) as long as it doesn’t create a safety or security issue.
Where masks are still required:
- In health care settings, including long-term care settings (home/hospice) and correctional facilities.
July 29, 2022 – L&I News – Outdoor workers have protections as heat wave sweeps Washington – Click here
Thank you to those who were able to join us for the April 13, 2021 meeting. For those who were unable to join us, we missed you and look forward to seeing you at another guild event soon!
Here are the meeting minutes, and you’ll find the meeting presentation here, which includes a legislative update, Healthy WA reopenings info, federal resources round-up, and info on our upcoming Multiplayer IPA Guild Collab.
Also, here are some links to additional information requested during the meeting:
Healthy WA Metrics Dashboard by County
BA Webinar on Restaurant Revitalization Fund (RRF)
Coronavirus/COVID 19 – WA Brewery Emergency Resources link: Coronavirus/COVID 19 – WA Brewery Emergency Resources link
The following LCB PowerPoint presentation covers:
- Moneys Worth to Retailers
- Branded Promotional Materials Guidelines
- Point of Sale Requirements
- Advertising
- Brewers Nights (Tap Takeovers) Do’s and Don’ts
- Public & Civic Events/Special Occasion Licenses
Many breweries have asked us when/what brewers can and cannot donate to charities. We asked the LCB for giving guidelines and here’s their answer:
- Breweries can donate branded promotional items to all non-profits. This is to be used only by the licensee and not to be given away to consumers
- Brewers can donate beer only to 501c3 and 501c6
- A 501c3 or c6 without a special occasion license can receive branded promotional items. They can also receive gift cards, cannot just be specific to alcohol
- Breweries can donate items to be auctioned as long as the price of the auctioned items starts at above cost of production
Breweries are very generous and donate to many charities and charitable events in their communities. Many breweries have found that requiring charities to fill out a donation request form has been helpful in managing the numerous requests they receive. Here’s a template for donation requests you may adapt for your brewery:
A special occasion license allows a bona fide nonprofit organization to sell liquor at a specific time, date and place. Examples of events include fundraising dinners, gala events, auctions, and wine tastings.
NOTE FOR BREWERIES: You may donate beer to a 501 (c) 3 or 501 (c) 6 non-profit organization holding a special occasion permit.
Breweries CAN (but are not required to):
- Donate beer or sell beer at wholesale to non-profits with a 501 (c) 3 or 6 status
- Pay the non-profit special occasion licensee a reasonable booth fee for the event
- Provide signage, programs and brand advertising
- Pay a 3rd party directly for advertising
- Pour at events that are considered beer exhibitions (LCB test: event has the word beer/brew or similar- if in doubt, check with your local LCB agent)
- Receive returns from the non-profit
Breweries CANNOT:
- Provide money directly or indirectly for the event (except as outlined above)
- Sponsor the event
- Receive part of the proceeds from the event
- Pay a promoter acting on behalf of a non-profit
Manufacturers (Breweries, Wineries, Distilleries) Checklist:
Non-Profits Checklist:
http://www.liq.wa.gov/publications/licensing/flow_charts/Non-Profit_Window_v2.pdf
Special Occasion License FAQs:
http://www.liq.wa.gov/enforcement/special-occasion-license-faq
A banquet permit is a permit you apply for that allows the service and consumption of liquor at a private, invitation-only banquet or gathering held in a public place or business. Examples include weddings, company banquets, retirement parties, and club, organization or church events.
NOTE FOR BREWERIES: Organizations holding a banquet permit must PURCHASE beer for their event. Charities seeking donated beer must obtain a special occasion license (see above info).
Banquet Permit Checklist:
http://www.liq.wa.gov/publications/licensing/flow_charts/Banquet_Permit_Checklist_v1.pdf
During the 2016 Legislative Session, the WBG successfully obtained legislation creating a special permit for brewers to sample and sell beer of their own production at a private event location that does not hold a current liquor license. Brewers can hold up to 12 events a year. The permit takes 10 days to process and costs $11.00.
Permit Application:
Getting Started – Courtesy of the Brewers Association:
Brewers Association FDA Article
FDA Food Safety Modernization Act Overview:
http://www.fda.gov/downloads/F ood/GuidanceRegulation/FSMA/UC M461834.pdf
FSMA Updates:
http://www.fda.gov/Food/Guidan ceRegulation/FSMA/default.htm
FSMA Frequently Asked Questions:
http://www.fda.gov/Food/Guidan ceRegulation/FSMA/ucm247559.ht m#PC_Rules
FSMA Training:
http://www.fda.gov/Food/Guidan ceRegulation/FSMA/ucm461513.ht m
Assistance:
For inquiries and assistance implementing FSMA, visit:
http://www.fda.gov/Food/Guidan ceRegulation/FSMA/ucm459719.ht m
Brewers Association Resource – Good Manufacturing Practices for Craft Brewers:
Brewers Association Safety Ambassador PowerPoint Presentation:
Confined Spaces Best Practices:
https://www.brewersassociation.org/best-practices/safety/confined-spaces/
Protective Clothing Best Practices:
https://www.brewersassociation.org/best-practices/safety/protective-clothing-for-brewery-workers/
Powered Industrial Trucks Best Practices:
https://www.brewersassociation.org/educational-publications/powered-industrial-trucks/
Best Management Practice for Surviving an OSHA Inspection:
Free online brewery safety training:
https://www.brewersassociation.org/best-practices/safety/free-online-brewery-safety-training/
What Brewers Can Do:
Draught Quality Warm Storage Guidelines:
Brewers Association Draught Quality Manual:
https://www.brewersassociation.org/educational-publications/draught-quality/
Questions about entering into contracts with distributors? The Washington Beer and Wine Distributors Association put together a helpful checklist for brewers to consider when entering into agreements with distributors.
The WSLCB does not require a COLA for beer sold in-state only. HOWEVER, there are labeling mandates, as well as basic product filing with the state required for compliance.
Here are the product labels/keg collar compliance guidelines for beer sold within WA State lines only:
https://www.washingtonbrewersguild.org/wp-content/uploads/2019/08/WBG-Label-Guidelines.pdf
