Young workers are an asset to the workforce. However, whether working indoors or outdoors, young workers may be more at risk for heat illness than other groups.
Young workers approach tasks with energy, enthusiasm and a desire for new challenges and more responsibilities. They may be asked to take on tasks that they are not prepared to do safely. It may be their first job or they are working in a new industry. They may not want to ask questions, raise concerns or make demands of their employer because they do not want to cause issues.
Young workers may be assigned more physically demanding tasks or longer shifts and may also not be acclimatized to working in heat. This means that they have not been given the opportunity to ease into work and allow their body to adapt to heat exposure. This can be common during seasonal jobs or in under‑staffed conditions.
What feels like a regular shift can turn deadly quickly. Watch for the signs of heat illness and train your employees to recognize the signs. Act quickly when signs appear to save lives.
■ Give cool water to drink.
■ Remove unnecessary clothing; do not leave alone.
■ Move to a shaded or cooler area and cool with water, ice or a fan.
■ Seek medical care if needed. When in doubt, call 911.
Signs of a medical emergency:
■ Comply with federal and state child labor laws. For example, federal laws prohibit youth under 18 from working certain hours and from performing dangerous or hazardous work.
■ Train employees to use safe work practices and recognize hazards. Training should occur whenever a new task is assigned and be in a language and vocabulary that employees can understand. Heat safety trainings should help employees understand their heat exposure risks and teach them about prevention actions and first aid.
■ Model safe working behaviors and decision-making. This could include providing scheduled work breaks, especially as new employees get used to working in the heat.
■ Train employees on what to do if they get hurt on the job.
■ Provide safety equipment as necessary that fits correctly.
■ Implement a mentoring or buddy system. Have an older or more experienced worker help new and younger employees learn the ropes of a new job.
■ Encourage employees to ask questions about tasks and tell them whom to ask. Respond positively and considerately to all questions so that employees do not feel reluctant to speak up.
■ Ensure that equipment is functional, legal and safe for employee use. Label equipment that workers under 18 are not allowed to operate.
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