Employers urged to to give young people a safe start

As part of Norwich Union's 'Simply Safety' campaign, a one-page downloadable guide (pdf) has been produced advising trades on how to give young people a safe and productive start in the working environment.

Although children under 13 are prohibited from any form of work, young people are often brought into the workplace across a range of trades and industries. Young people are defined as those over the minimum school leaving age of 16, but not yet 18.

"Accidents are the greatest single threat to the life of children and young people," said Phil Grace, liability risk manager for Norwich Union. "A combined lack of experience and maturity can provide a lethal combination - especially in the workplace."

Research has shown that all people are at greater risk of injury in their first 6 months of employment - whether young or old.

Specific regulations

Phil went on to explain that specific regulations applied to people aged up to 18-years, including those on vocational training and work experience placements.

"The Health and Safety (Young Persons) Regulations 1997 require employers to undertake particular assessments of the risks affecting the health and safety of employees under 18 before the young person starts work," he said.

"On completion, the risks and control measures must be brought to the attention of the young person, his/her parents, or those having parental responsibility."

The regulations prohibit the employment of young people where risk assessment identifies harmful exposure to toxic substances, radiation, extreme cold or heat, vibration, noise or work which is beyond their physical capacity.

Phil added: "There are also specific prohibitions on the employment of young persons in certain trades or the use of particular plant and machinery, so it is wise to seek guidance before taking on a young person - more information can be obtained from the Health and Safety Executive's website."

Further information from the HSE can be found here. You can also view/download a Norwich Union Risk Services 'hardfacts' guide, providing information on the Health and Safety (Young Persons) Regulations and more - click here.