Young & 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 tools and resources that can help reduce the risk. Our Student WorkSafe resources 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 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


Web resources

Construction Safety Videos (BCIT)

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