Young workers

The number of young people in employment has increased significantly over the last twenty years, and they have the second highest rate of injury claims.

Workplace support for young workers

While evidence is still limited on how best to support younger workers ensuring health and safety training that builds communication and confidence could help.

Injuries, ill-health, and fatalities in young workers

Young workers are a vulnerable group and more at risk of injury and ill-health.

Why our young workers may be more vulnerable to harm

The risks to young workers are varied and may include lack of experience of workplaces but also lack of health and safety training building confidence to speak

Protecting young workers by building their confidence

There has been a significant increase in young people’s employment over the last two decades. 40% of young people aged 16-24 years are employed part-time, and they are more likely to transition in and out of workplaces.

Young workers have the second-highest rate of injury claims in New Zealand. The injuries are often the result of the many hazards present in the places they typically work—such as sharp knives and slippery floors in restaurants.

Limited or no previous work experience and a lack of safety training also contribute to high injury rates. High school workers may be at a higher risk for injury since they may not have the strength or cognitive ability needed to perform certain tasks.

Health and safety training should be received by all young workers, as well as help to build their workplace communication skills and confidence—so that young workers can feel confident to speak up when they see something wrong.

Feedback

To find out more about the Wellbeing at Work initiative, or to give us your feedback on the early material, contact Professor Joanne Crawford.

Joanne profile picture

Prof Joanne Crawford

Professor of Health and Safety
School of Health

References

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