Hiring new and young workers provide additional opportunity to thriving business. They bring fresh perspectives, enthusiasm, and a willingness to learn. However, these workers are also at an increased risk of incidents and injuries on the job. This heightened vulnerability arises from several factors: limited experience, unfamiliarity with workplace hazards, and a possible lack of confidence to voice concerns. To ensure their safety, it is crucial to provide thorough training and robust support systems. Here’s how your organization can achieve this:

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Why New and Young Workers Are at Increased Risk

1. Limited Experience: New and young workers often lack the practical experience necessary to recognize and navigate workplace hazards. This inexperience can lead to mistakes that more seasoned employees would avoid.

2. Unfamiliarity with Workplace Hazards: These workers may not be fully aware of the specific risks associated with their roles. This knowledge gap makes them more susceptible to accidents.

3. Confidence to Speak Up: Young or new workers might hesitate to voice safety concerns or ask questions, fearing they might appear incompetent or be judged negatively by their peers or supervisors.

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Training and Onboarding

To mitigate these risks, a comprehensive training and onboarding process is essential. Depending on the work, specialized and in depth training may be required. Regardless of the work this process at a minimum should include the following key components:

1. Inform Them of the Risks

Identification of Hazards: Educate workers about the common hazards they might face, such as machinery, chemicals, and ergonomic risks.

 2. Inform Them of How to Control the Risks

 Informing of Safety Protocols: Educate them on the safety procedures and protocols designed to mitigate these hazards. Ensure they understand the importance of adhering to these measures and where they can access the information for future reference.

Comprehensive Training Programs: Offer detailed training sessions that cover safe work practices, emergency procedures, the correct use of personal protective equipment (PPE), safe equipment operation, etc. Sometimes it is necessary to have 3^rd party certified training completed.

3. Coach Them

On-the-Job Training and Mentorship: Effective training goes beyond initial orientation. Implementing continuous on-the-job training and mentorship programs can significantly enhance worker safety. Pair new workers with experienced mentors who can guide them, answer their questions, and provide practical, real-time training.

 Regular Check-Ins: Schedule regular check-ins to review their progress, address concerns, and ensure they comprehend the safety procedures. This ongoing support helps reinforce their learning and builds their confidence to operate safely.

 Engagement Opportunities: Encourage new and young workers to take part in safety meetings and discussions. Their involvement can provide fresh insights and help identify overlooked hazards.

3 Rights Every Employee Has

The Right to Know: Every worker has the right to know about the hazards they may encounter and the measures in place to control these risks.

The Right to Participate: Workers should actively participate in any activities that are related to the health and safety management at the company. This may include safety training, meetings, inspections, hazard assessments, participating on workplace safety committees and more.

The Right to Refuse Unsafe Work: Every worker has the right to refuse unsafe work without fear of reprisal. This right is crucial for maintaining a safe workplace and should be emphasized during training and periodically during safety meetings or other contact points.

Encourage workers to:

Voice Concerns - Empower them to speak up if they believe a task is unsafe.

Report Hazards - Foster an environment where reporting hazards is encouraged and acted upon promptly.

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When workers exercise their right to refuse unsafe work, it provides the company with a valuable opportunity to:

Improve Training - assess and enhance training programs to address any gaps in knowledge or skills.

Acquire Resources - Determine if additional resources are necessary to ensure a safe working environment.

Address Hazards - Identify and rectify uncontrolled hazards, making the workplace safer for everyone.

Ensuring the safety of new and young workers is not only a legal and moral responsibility but also a strategic investment in your work force’s future. By informing them of the risks, teaching them how to control these risks, and providing ongoing coaching and mentorship, you can create a safe and supportive work environment. Remember, a well-trained and confident workforce is a key driver of productivity and growth. Embrace this opportunity to learn, grow, and continually improve your safety practices.

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