Frequently asked questions

Why should young workers be treated differently to other workers?

Young workers have characteristics that make them unique compared to other age groups in the workforce.  Some of these characteristics make them more vulnerable to being injured at work. Understanding these characteristics can make it easier to engage young workers around work health and safety. This doesn't require bending the rules or having to baby-sit them - rather, considering their needs leads to improved engagement, attitudes and behaviours towards safety, and ultimately enhances safety outcomes.

Won't young workers just grow out of their risk taking behaviour?

Some of the characteristics of young workers, such as limited risk perception, will improve as they age and develop. However, generational factors that shape many of their attitude and behaviours, and their preferences for learning and communicating will remain throughout their lives.

What's the benefit of investing extra time in engaging with young workers around work health and safety?

Investing time in effective inductions and training, and appropriate supervision and support (including feedback and mentoring) is likely to increase the level of engagement the young worker has at work and decrease their likelihood of being injured. Employers may also benefit through a more productive workforce and lower workers' compensation costs.

How can I increase the confidence of a young worker to ask questions or raise concerns?

The most significant influence on whether a young worker feels confident to ask a question or raise a concern is the quality of the relationship they have with their direct supervisor. However, supervisors should not rely on young workers to speak up about their safety concerns, as they will sometimes overestimate their own ability or won't recognise when a situation becomes unsafe. Ensure young workers are appropriately supervised, and that they understand what is required of them by asking them to explain a task in their own words.

What can I do if I don't have the resources to implement a program to improve the safety of my young workers?

Young workers who have positive interactions with their supervisors are less likely to be injured at work. While formal training and development programs can be a good way to increase the skills of young workers, simple and inexpensive measurers such as valuing young workers, open communication, regular feedback and a commitment to learning should be the priority.

As a parent, how do I know whether my child's workplace is effectively managing health and safety risks?

The best thing you can do to understand how your child's workplace is managing risks is to have regular, open conversations with your child about their job. Try and establish an understanding of their work tasks, including their exposure to potentially dangerous situations or tasks such as machinery and equipment, working at heights, manual handling and hazardous chemicals. Ask them about any incidents or near-misses that they have seen or heard about. Encourage and support your child to ask questions and raise concerns with their supervisor.