When you employ young teens in your workforce, you must remember that teenagers may lack experience. This could result in accidents and injuries. The Department of Labor suggests the following guidelines for employers to help teenagers work safely:

Orientation
The orientation program is essential for a new employee. It is during this time that an employee is provided with information regarding park district policies, practices and procedures. An organized and well-developed program assists new employees in obtaining all the facts firsthand, boosts their confidence and contributes to a positive attitude.

Training
The following steps will assist in training young employees:

• Explain the safety precautions to take and provide clear instructions.
• Explain in clear language how to perform the job.
• Ask them to repeat the instructions and allow time for questions/clarification.
• Observe them while they work and point out any errors they have made.
• Periodically check to ensure they are performing the job correctly and safely.
• Supervisors and workers should set a good example by following all safety rules.

Equipment
For safety reasons, teens are not allowed to perform certain jobs or use certain equipment. Depending on the job, some teens may need to wear personal protective equipment such as safety shoes, hard hats or gloves. Make sure they are familiar with the facilities they are working in, as well as the safety features of the equipment they are using.

Programs
The workplace should be free of hazards for all ages. The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) has the primary responsibility for enforcing safety and health standards established by the OSHA Act of 1970.

Rights
Teen workers should be provided with a safe and healthy workplace which is free of recognized hazards.

If teens notice a safety hazard at work, they should report it to their supervisor. If the employer does not address the concern, the employee can file a complaint with OSHA or their state labor office. Remember, it is illegal for an employer to punish or fire a person for reporting a workplace problem.

Work without racial or sexual harassment. Teens can contact the U.S. Equal Employment Opportunities Commission to report racial or sexual harassment.

Teens can only work limited hours and perform certain job functions as permitted by state and federal laws.

All workers need to be able to handle an emergency. Teens should receive training in how to handle power outages, escape a fire, and any other potential risks they may face. They should also know where to go if they are injured and in need of first aid or medical care. For additional information regarding teen workers and child labor law visit, one of the following websites: www.youthrules.dol.gov or www.osha.gov/SLTC/teenworkers.