Young people in the workplace

Young people can be at higher risk than because of their age and lack of experience of working in general, and in the particular job they are doing.

The following need to be considered in risk assessments when young people are at work.

* People are at particular risk of injury in the first six months of a job as they may be unaware of existing or potential risks.
* Young people may lack experience or maturity or may be unaware of how to raise concerns.
* They may not have reached physical maturity and therefore lack the strength demanded
* They may be eager to impress or please people with whom they work

A young person's first employer has an excellent opportunity to instill safe and healthy work in them, that will stay with them for the rest of their lives.

Legislation defines young people as being under the age of 18. It places restrictions on some activities and the hours they are able to work.

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