Staying Safe in the Summer: Job Safety for Teens



Did you know that young workers, those ages 15-24, have higher rates of job related injury?  This can be prevented when workers, employers, and parents all work together on this issue. Here is what teens, parents, and employers can do: 

Parents:

  • Take an active role in discussing employment, understanding the nature of the work and possible risks
  • Ask if the teen has received any safety trainings
  • Know if the teen works with dangerous machinery or hazardous equipment
  • Ask what the plan is if there is an emergency or injury
  • Remind their teen to speak up if they feel unsafe
  • Make sure their teen knows their rights and responsibilities

Teens:

  • Follow best practices for their work site
  • Report hazards
  • Speak up when they feel unsafe or unsure of how to do something safely
  • Teens under 18 have special protections at work under labor laws,  but all workers should know their rights

Employers:

  • Understand federal and state child labor laws that apply to young workers
  • Provide safety training using words that everyone understands
  • Point out safety precautions and possible workplace hazards
  • Provide hands-on training on correct use of equipment
  • Avoid making assumptions
  • Supervise teens closely, correct any issues
  • Implement a mentoring or buddy system with an adult or experienced workplace peer.
  • Encourage communication
  • Tell young workers what to do if they get hurt
  • Set a good safety example

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