You are the protector of your children! Talk to them about health and safety. Communicate openly about workplace issues such as training – have they received it? Familiarize yourself with your child’s job by asking open-ended questions and letting them explain. It’s a scary world out there, but with communication and education – we can make it a safer place.
Quiz for Parents: What do you know about your teen’s job?
What tasks do they normally perform?
Did they receive an orientation to the job and the rules of the workplace?
Did they receive safety training and information on the hazards associated with their job?
Do they work with powered equipment, chemicals, mobile equipment, at heights, around biological agents or are they required to lift and carry heavy objects?
Does their supervisor work in or near their work area?
Does the supervisor provide feedback on how they’re performing on the job and provide information and advice to help prevent your teen from being injured?
Are they required to use or wear protective equipment? If so, have they been trained in how to use it properly and ensure it fits?
If they work with chemicals, did they receive WHMIS training?
Do they know that they must report safety concerns and hazards they find to their supervisor?
Do they know that they are supposed to report all injuries they suffer to their supervisor?
For more information for parents about Young Worker safety, please visit WorkSmartOntario.
The Young Brain
Did you know … the human brain is not fully developed until the age of 25? This can impact workplace safety. As your child’s brain continues to develop, their decision making, risk-taking and even sleep requirements are affected. For more information about brain development and its impact on workplace safety, please visit:
The YWRCC is requiredif your child is 14 or 15 years old and wants to work in Saskatchewan. If they are older than that … it’s still a good idea and looks great on a résumé! The YWRCC teaches all about their rights and responsibilities for health and safety and for labour standards.
Many employers will look for this course before they hire a young worker. If your child is 14 or 15 and the person hiring them didn’t ask for this course, consider advising your child to find a different place to work. You don’t want them working for someone who doesn’t care about their health and safety. Click here to find out more.
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