Parent tips: Keeping young workers safe

Take this opportunity to talk to your teen about workplace safety.

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Getting a first job is an important milestone and can be very rewarding. It may also expose a young worker to job hazards. In fact, young workers are far more likely than adults to be injured at work. As a parent, you can help prevent these injuries by talking to your son or daughter about workplace safety.

Before your teen starts work

Encourage them to ask questions about safety during job interviews such as:

“What health and safety orientation or training will I get before I begin work?”

“Will I need safety gear?”

Know the labor laws that apply to your child. Are there age restrictions?
Remind your teen that injuries can have life-changing consequences. One poor judgment call can have a lasting impact.

After your teen starts work

Remind them of their right to safety training, information about safe working, and their right to refuse unsafe work.
Help your teen feel comfortable about asking questions at work.
Talk to your teen about the dangers of working while tired, under the influence of medication, alcohol or drugs, and texting while driving or working around equipment.
Watch for signs of concern. Is your child’s performance at school changing? Is there an increase in stress and fatigue? Are there signs of anxiety or depression?

Online resources

For more on this topic, visit our young workers page.