Many teenagers and young people enter the workforce to earn money, save for the future and gain experience. While these are admirable motivations, sometimes the jobs most readily available to young workers are those that come with certain risk of workplace injuries. It is particularly important for Pennsylvania employers to ensure that these workers have been properly trained and know how to do their jobs safely.
Readers may be surprised to know that young workers, those under the age of 24, comprise as much as 13 percent of the entire workforce. This demographic is twice as likely to experience an injury while at work as those workers who are 25 years and older. There may be both physical and cognitive reasons for this increased risk among young workers, such as lack of physical strength or developing maturity.
For example, jobs in restaurants are popular among teens and college students, but they also come with certain risks. Sharp cooking instruments, boiling water or even slippery floors present certain risks and may lead to serious injuries. In some cases, younger employees may be mentally or physically incapable of safely completing their job. Extensive training and adequate safety training should be given to these workers.
When a Pennsylvania worker is injured on the job, he or she has the right to medical treatment and financial recovery. With the help of a lawyer experienced in worker rights, a young person can heal and navigate the workers’ compensation claims process with ease. A complete case evaluation is a practical first step for anyone who has suffered workplace injuries.
Source: cdc.gov, “YOUNG WORKER SAFETY AND HEALTH“, Accessed on March 16, 2016