Supporting Young Workers: Why It Matters

The Value and Risks of Young Workers

Young workers bring innovation, new skills, and optimism to the workplace but are more prone to injuries, especially in their first six months. They often hesitate to ask questions, making it essential to create a supportive environment. 

Workplace Health and Safety Queensland (WHSQ) data reveals that workers aged 15 to 24 are the most vulnerable in Queensland. This age group constitutes over 16% of the state's workforce and accounts for more than 4,400 serious injury reports annually. Nationally, since 2012, this demographic has experienced over 191 workplace deaths and the highest number of injury claims in the past decade. Queensland alone has lost 45 young workers.  

Benefits of Supporting Young Workers

Supporting young workers has multiple benefits for both the employees and the organisation. A well-supported young workforce can significantly boost safety and compliance within the workplace. It leads to increased productivity and higher employee retention rates, creating a more stable and efficient work environment. Additionally, promoting a positive safety mindset ensures that all employees feel safer, which in turn lowers staff turnover and improves overall morale. 

Key Actions for Employers

To effectively support young workers, employers should take several key actions. Firstly, promoting strong safety habits is essential. Leaders should model safe behaviour, promptly address any hazards, and encourage open communication about safety concerns. This sets a standard for young workers to follow and helps them understand the importance of workplace safety. 

Providing thorough training is another crucial step. Using the "Tell me, Show me, Watch me" approach for task-specific instruction can be highly effective. This method involves explaining the task, demonstrating it, and then observing the young worker as they perform it. This ensures that they fully understand how to complete tasks safely and correctly. 

Proper supervision is also vital. Building positive relationships with young workers and encouraging them to voice any safety concerns can greatly reduce the risk of workplace injuries. When young workers feel supported and valued, they are more likely to speak up about potential hazards and take safety procedures seriously. 

Offering personal protective equipment (PPE) and explaining its importance is another essential measure. Employers should ensure that young workers know why they need PPE, how it will prevent injuries, and the types of injuries that can occur if they do not use it correctly. Consistently checking that all employees are using PPE, especially when new workers start, reinforces its importance and helps build confidence in its use. 

Including young workers in consultations about safety matters is also crucial. Engaging them in safety discussions and decision-making processes helps them feel involved and valued. For example, setting up daily stand-up meetings at the start of shifts to discuss safety issues can encourage open discussion and build team rapport. 

Legal Obligations and Best Practices

From a legal standpoint, employers have a duty under OHS laws to provide and maintain a safe working environment. This includes offering proper induction, training, and PPE. Regular consultations and including young workers in safety matters ensure that these obligations are met and maintained. 

By taking these steps, you can help young workers thrive safely and confidently in their roles. Supporting young workers not only enhances their well-being but also contributes to a safer, more productive, and positive workplace for everyone. 

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Sources

New data: 4,400+ young workers seriously injured each year, by WorkSafe QLD

Young workers: information for employers, by WorkSafe Victoria