Hesitant about hiring teen help for the summer? Teen employees can be beneficial to your business as long as you give them the proper training and oversight.
According to the Department of Labor, 2.3 million teens ages 15 to 17 worked in the United States in 2008. Teens are a great resource to fill extra shifts and handle increased business, but with that comes the added responsibility for their safety. Of the 2.3 million teens that worked in 2008, an estimated 34 died from work-related injuries, and it is likely that 146,000 youth sustain work-related injuries and illnesses each year.
Here are some helpful questions and answers if your business employs temporary teenage workers:
Q: Does my workers compensation policy cover temporary teen employees?
A: Yes. If you have recently hired teen employees, it is a good idea to review the Missouri and Federal Child Labor laws to make sure you are in compliance. Related information can be found at http://labor.mo.gov/DLS/YouthEmployment/.
Q: Do I need to update my policy if I hire teen employees?
A: You do need to contact your agent. MEM would like to be informed if you have hired teen labor so we can help address safety and compliance concerns.
Q: How can I help teen employees care about workplace safety?
A: Employees of any age will develop some degree of care based on what their bosses communicate or model. If management expects a high degree of safety, then teens are more likely to comply with that standard.
Q: How can I prepare my young worker to work safely?
A: The Occupational Safety & Health Administration (OSHA) suggests these simple steps employers can take to prevent injuries to working teens:
• Give clear instructions and explain what safety precautions to take.
• Ask for instructions to be repeated and give an opportunity for questions.
• Demonstrate how to perform tasks.
• Watch tasks being performed and correct any mistakes.
• Ask if there are any additional questions.
• Demonstrate how to use safety equipment.
• Prepare teens for emergencies.
For more information on keeping teens—and all of your employees—safe at work, contact us at worksafe@mem-ins.com or 1.888.499.SAFE (4233).