OSHA has launched a sub-site dedicated completely to providing safety information for the working teenagers of the US. What is already there is full of great information and it’s all posted in an easy to read format. The current content includes a Teen Safety Fact Sheet and an article on Building a Safe Work Foundation. There are also miscellaneous sub-sections for parents, educators and employers. According to the site, they will provide answers to questions ‘often asked by the working teen’, details about workers right’s and responsibilities as well as links to other educational resources.

This comes not a moment to soon, as recent figures indicate that an average of 70 teens a year die of work related injuries. (citation)

Among the recommendations for employers, listed are the following :

1. Pay special attention to the applicable laws of the FLSA.

- The types of jobs and the hours available for teens to work are restricted by these laws.

- Of course, all laws indicated in the OSH Act apply as well.

2. Providing specialized training to ensure youth are aware of hazards and are competent in safe work practices.

3. Assigning supervisors to keep watch over teens and ensure they are following safe practices.

4. Stressing Safety, and encouraging teens to ask questions when they are unsure about anything.

5. Develop a Safety and Health Program which involves the whole team. Safety programs are essential in minimizing workplace accidents and ensuring OSHA compliance.

You can find a complete list of fact sheets which outline the laws that may apply to your industry type at the Department of Labor Fact Sheet Page.

Other helpful resources include a 12 page pocket manual called “The Employers Guide to Youth Employment” and a NIOSH analysis of Child Fatality Reports from 2007