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Special Risks for Young Workers—and How to Mitigate Them: Essential Safety Strategies

Special Risks for Young Workers—and How to Mitigate Them: Essential Safety Strategies

Special Risks for Young Workers—and How to Mitigate Them is a critical topic for any safety manager, supervisor, or employer.

Young workers—typically defined as those under 25—are statistically more likely to suffer workplace injuries than older, more experienced colleagues.

Why? Because they often lack experience, training, and the confidence to speak up about hazards. Employers have a responsibility to understand these unique risks and address them effectively.

This guide explains why young workers face higher risks, identifies common hazards, and offers practical strategies to keep them safe.


Understanding Why Young Workers Are at Higher Risk

Young workers bring energy, enthusiasm, and fresh ideas—but they also face specific challenges that increase their vulnerability:

According to CCOHS, young workers are more likely to be injured within the first six months of employment than at any other time.


Common Hazards Facing Young Workers

Employers should be aware of the types of hazards young workers often encounter:

Recognizing these hazards is the first step toward preventing them.


In many jurisdictions, employers have a specific legal obligation to protect vulnerable workers, including young employees.

Employers must:

Resources like OHSE.ca offer guidance on meeting these obligations in Canada.


How to Mitigate Special Risks for Young Workers

1️⃣ Provide Comprehensive Orientation and Training

Young workers often lack context for safety rules. An effective onboarding program should:

Regular refresher training helps ensure lessons stick.


2️⃣ Foster Open Communication

Young workers may hesitate to admit they don’t understand a task or to point out hazards. Supervisors should:

This builds a psychological safety culture where speaking up is valued.


3️⃣ Assign Appropriate Work and Supervision

Avoid giving young workers tasks that exceed their training or physical capabilities. Employers should:

This ensures young employees aren’t left on their own before they’re ready.


4️⃣ Use Clear, Simple Safety Instructions

Young workers may not be familiar with industry jargon. Safety instructions should be:

This avoids misunderstandings that can lead to injuries.


5️⃣ Model Safe Behaviors

Supervisors and experienced workers set the tone. Young workers are highly observant and will often copy what they see. Employers should:

Modeling safety creates a strong, consistent safety culture.


6️⃣ Encourage Participation in Safety Programs

Get young workers involved in safety committees or toolbox talks. This can:

Engaged employees are safer employees.


7️⃣ Review and Improve

Employers should continuously evaluate their approach to protecting young workers by:

This demonstrates commitment and ensures continuous improvement.


Special Risks for Young Workers—and How to Mitigate Them

Special Risks for Young Workers—and How to Mitigate Them is not just a training topic—it’s a critical part of any employer’s duty of care.

By understanding the unique challenges young workers face and implementing practical strategies, employers can prevent injuries, support development, and build a safer, more productive workplace.

Investing in young worker safety is investing in the future of your business.

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