Giving jobs to young people is beneficial in multiple ways. It's a chance for them to pick up a trade, sharpen their skills, take on responsibility, and make their own money.
However, this opportunity comes with significant risks. Young Americans, particularly those aged 15 to 24, face a much higher chance of getting hurt at work - they're up to 2.3 times more likely to suffer job-related injuries compared to those over 25.
The danger is real and sometimes tragic. In 2021 alone, 398 workers under the age of 25 lost their lives due to injuries they received while working. This stark statistic highlights the need for extra attention to the safety of young workers in the workforce.
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Employing Young Workers: Key Reasons Behind Their Injury Vulnerability
According to CBS News, about 19 million young workers, constituting 13% of the U.S. workforce, face unique risks due to inexperience and ongoing physical and mental development.
These young individuals, especially those aged 16-24, are more susceptible to workplace injuries, a concern often overlooked during training. They're at risk for a range of injuries, from tendinitis to falls, partly because their bodies and brains are still developing, impacting their strength and decision-making skills.
Additionally, many young workers hesitate to ask for help or raise safety concerns, seeking approval from superiors.
Compounding these risks, some states like Arkansas and Iowa have relaxed labor laws, allowing teens to work in more hazardous conditions and for longer hours. This change aligns with a rise in child labor violations and severe accidents among young workers.
Notable incidents in 2023 include the workplace deaths of teenagers Duvan Tomas Perez, Michael Schulz, and Will Hampton.
Despite these state law changes, the Fair Labor Standards Act of 1938, which ensures workplace safety for those under 18, remains a federal standard. The government has increased enforcement, finding over 4,000 child labor violations and imposing fines on violators, including well-known fast-food franchises.
Young Workers: Employers' Vital Role in Safety Training
Employers are crucial in creating a safe workplace for young workers, who often hold their first jobs under their supervision. Employers need to guide them in recognizing and avoiding job hazards.
To ensure safety, employers should assign work suitable for young workers, considering factors like job complexity, level of responsibility, and potential risks such as exposure to hazardous chemicals or working alone. Adherence to age-specific regulations for various industries is also vital.
Due to inexperience, young workers may underestimate risks or hesitate to ask questions. Employers should encourage open communication and provide thorough training. It includes demonstrating safe task execution, monitoring initial performance, and ensuring consistent adherence to safety procedures.
Safety training extends to properly using personal protective equipment and emergency response protocols. Young workers should be familiar with emergency equipment locations and procedures for different crisis scenarios.
Adequate supervision is vital. Supervisors should be well-versed in workplace laws, hazards, and safety measures to adequately train and oversee young workers, ensuring a secure and educative work environment.
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