Young or new workers
Workers of all ages can be injured at work, but young and new workers may be more at risk. Injuries can result from inadequate training, orientation, and supervision; inexperience; and lack of awareness of workplace rights and responsibilities. Whatever your role, we have have tools and resources that can help reduce the risk. Our Student WorkSafe, Young Worker Speakers Program, and student safety video contest are also available to help empower youth to be healthy and safe at work.
- Definition of young and new workers
- The risks
- Related resources
Definition of young and new workers
The Occupational Health and Safety Regulation defines a "young worker" as any worker under age 25. A "new worker" can be any age and includes those who are new to the workplace or location, or facing new hazards.
The risks
Typical reasons why young and new workers are injured include:
- Inexperience
- Lack of training, orientation, and supervision
- Lack of understanding of their workplace
- Lack of preparation for the workplace
- Exposure to more dangerous jobs
- Hesitancy to ask questions
Related resources
Support for Employers: Training and Orientation for Young and New Workers
Training and orientation for young and new workers.
Getting a Job? Ask Questions About Safety
Pamphlet created with the help from members of the Young Worker Advisory Group, this simple document provides young and new workers with useful tips on how to address concerns about safety in the workplace....
Young Workers: Exposure to Workplace Hazards Might Be Making You Sick...You Just Don't Know It Yet
Whether you work in a retail store, a restaurant, an office, or a manufacturing plant, you could be exposed to hazardous materials in the air you breathe, in the chemicals or cleaners you use, and sometimes...
Lost youth - Four stories of injured young workers: Full version
This following video contains language that may be offensive to some, viewer discretion is advised. Michael, Jennifer, John, and Nick all speak of losing their youth after suffering serious workplace accidents....
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Penalties
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