Employing young people can bring fresh ideas and positive attitudes into your workplace. There are, however, certain points you need to consider to ensure a safe working environment for a worker under the age of 15. Please consider the following.

1. Obtain evidence of age and fitness

Employees under the age of 15 should provide proof of identity that is then kept on file. For certain types of work, such as more physical work, a certificate issued by a medical practitioner should be obtained and be kept on file.

2. No Hazardous Work

Young workers should not engage in hazardous duties, such as operating heavy machinery.

3. A Safe Working Environment

Arrangements should be made to ensure the health and safety of young workers, including:

• Providing and maintaining a safe and healthy work environment;
• Providing and maintaining safe plant;
• Ensuring the safe use, handling, storage and transport of substances;
• Ensuring safe systems of work; and
• Providing information, instruction, training and supervision to ensure workplace health and safety.

There should also be arrangements in place to monitor working hours and avoid prohibited work, as well as ensuring parents can be contacted with ease and employee records are safeguarded.

4. Working Hours

The working hours of a young worker should not exceed 40 hours a week or 9 hours a day. Regular meal breaks should also be provided.

5. Training and Supervision

Line managers should ensure that all young workers are adequately trained and work under adequate supervision.

General advice warning

The information on this site is of a general nature only. It does not take your specific needs or circumstances into consideration. You should look at your own situation and requirements before making any decisions.

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