What can you do?
Training becomes extremely important. Teens are changing jobs frequently making tasks very unfamiliar. They tend to be distracted easily. Further, many teens are not familiar with labor laws and not sure if they can refuse to do certain risky tasks. Teens are not as likely to ask for direction or help because they think they should know what to do.
Supervise very closely. Ensure teens are performing only tasks that are permitted by law. No one under 18 drives a vehicle, handles power equipment or handles certain cutlery.
Common injuries are cuts, bruises, scrapes, sprains and strains, burns and fractures or dislocations. Such businesses that these are most common are retail, restaurants and grocery stores. Repetitive trauma from scanning, typing, neck, back and shoulder pain are tasks that often contribute to such injuries and are common complaints among teens.
Emotional trauma and stress is also something teens experience on the job. Verbal and physical threats and abuse, and sexual harassment are common in workplaces that employ teens.
The EEOC created the "Youth at Work" initiative that informs teens about their rights as employees including:
- A workplace free of harassment, discrimination
- Ability to complain without fear of retaliation
- Ability to receive accommodations for religion or disability
- Knowledge that their medical information must be private
Such training is being provided in schools however it is not as prevalent as it may need to be and often not as involved or "hands on" as it needs to be to ensure full understanding.
Often supervisors of young teens are young themselves. it is imperative that business owners prepare all properly for the role that they are in.
Be aware of how your clients or customers handle your employees. They must respect them and it is your responsibility to ensure your environment is free from unnecessary inappropriate interactions such as forms of harassment or behaviors that creates an uncomfortable work environment.
Legal matters are a concern. Ensure you are in compliance with Fair Labor Standards Act governing workers younger than 18. There are restrictions as to when minors can work and what jobs they can do. NIOSH offers the following advice:
- Know and comply with the laws that vary state to state
- Recognize hazards
- Supervise closely
- Provide training
- Develop an injury prevention program
- Encourage teens to express their complaints and concerns.
