Young People at Work: Employer Responsibilities and Safety Guidance

Employing young people under the age of 18 comes with the same legal responsibilities for health, safety and welfare as for any other employee. This applies whether the individual is:

• A worker
• On work experience
• An apprentice

Understanding and managing the specific risks associated with young workers is essential for maintaining a safe and compliant workplace.

Why Young People Are at Greater Risk in the Workplace

Young people are often new to both the workplace and the industry, meaning they typically have less experience than older employees. As a result, they may face a higher risk of injury.

They may be more vulnerable because they:

• Lack experience or maturity
• Have not yet reached full physical development or strength
• Are eager to impress colleagues or supervisors
• May not know how to raise concerns about safety

Employers must take these factors into account when planning work activities and supervision.

Training and Supervision Requirements

Young employees require clear instruction, appropriate training and effective supervision to ensure they understand workplace risks and how to work safely.

In most cases, they will need:

• More detailed guidance than adult employees
• Ongoing supervision
• Regular checks to confirm understanding

Providing the right level of support helps reduce risks to both the young person and others in the workplace.

Work Experience and Work-Based Learning

For many young people, work experience is their first exposure to a professional working environment.

Under health and safety law:

• Work experience students are treated as employees
• Most workplace activities are permitted, provided risks are properly managed

Risk Assessments for Young Workers

A risk assessment is a key part of preparing for young workers or work experience students. The level of detail will depend on the nature of the risks involved.

You should review your risk assessment before a young person starts if:

• You do not currently employ young people
• You have not employed young people in recent years
• You are hosting a work experience student for the first time
• The student has specific needs or requirements

Working with Schools, Parents and Carers

It is important to communicate risk assessment findings with organisers, and consider input from parents or carers regarding:

• The young person’s physical and psychological capabilities
• Any health conditions or learning difficulties

Parents or carers should also be informed of:

• Significant risks in the workplace
• Measures in place to control those risks

This information can be shared in the most practical way, often via the school or college.

Induction and Ongoing Communication

When a young person starts work, employers should:

• Clearly explain workplace risks
• Outline control measures
• Check understanding through discussion or questioning

A thorough induction helps ensure safe working practices from day one.

Legal Requirements for Employing Young People

Under UK health and safety law, employers must ensure, as far as reasonably practicable, the health, safety and welfare of all employees, regardless of age.

Key Definitions

• Young person: Anyone under 18
• Child: Anyone below the minimum school leaving age (MSLA)

Pupils reach the MSLA during the school year in which they turn 16.

Employment Restrictions

• Children below the MSLA must not work in industrial environments such as factories or construction sites, except as part of work experience
• Children under 13 are generally not permitted to work
• Local authorities may set by-laws governing the types and hours of work for those aged 13 to MSLA

Need Support with Risk Assessments?

If you require assistance with risk assessments for young workers or work experience placements, contact us for more information!