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Your teen’s first job is a big deal. It’s one of the major milestones in growing up. And while you want to let them spread their wings, you always want to make sure they're safe.
One of the steps you can take to equip your kid to enter the workforce is to make sure your own assumptions are in line with reality. This way, you can better talk to them about what to expect.
Let's chat about some common misconceptions when it comes to teen workplace safety. They might surprise you!
Assumption 1: My teen's job is low risk, so they don't need to worry about safety
Reality: No job is entirely risk-free, especially in the beginning. Even seemingly low-risk environments can present hazards, notably to young workers. In fact, studies show the stakes may be higher than you think.
New and young workers in Ontario are four times more likely to be hurt during the first month on the job compared to any other time. This is because first-time workers are unsure of who to ask for help or even unsure if they should ask for help. It’s a totally new environment for young workers and likely an environment with more real consequences than what they’re used to.
Don’t worry; there are steps you can take to make sure your child is equipped to handle the tricky business of asking for help, keeping themselves safe, and understanding what’s expected and what’s not expected of them.
What you can do: Try to impart the idea that your teen is expected to ask for help or direction in a new job, especially when they’re unsure. It’s important that they understand not only will their superiors not fault them for asking for help but that it’s a normal part of the process.
Assumption 2: Common injuries happen in high-risk jobs where people cut corners
Reality: Workplace injuries aren't only reserved for construction sites or factories. Nope, they can happen anywhere! In fact, slips, trips, and falls are some of the most common types of workplace injuries and occur in almost every industry across the board.
Let’s say your teen works in an office job. Common office job injuries are:
- Slips, trips, and falls,
- Strains and sprains (called repetitive strain injuries) from lifting or repetitive tasks like typing and
- Musculoskeletal injuries, from improper sitting or lifting.
No matter where they're clocking in, safety should always be a top priority.
What you can do: Research the common injuries in your teen’s industry so you can be on the lookout for red flags in their workplace if you visit. You can also talk to them about common hazards and what they should expect regarding safety training on the job.
Assumption 3: Workplace injuries won't happen to my teen
Reality: Injuries can happen to anyone, even the most cautious individuals. Sometimes, workplace incidents aren’t the fault of the individual they happen to, but rather unfortunate circumstances. However, being prepared can make a big difference in prevention.
What you can do: Instill a safety mindset in your teen at home. Encourage them to stay alert, follow safety procedures, and not become complacent. You might be thinking, easier said than done. And you’re right. It’s tough to make anyone listen to cautionary advice. But you can lead by example and encourage safety within your home. And tell them stories about real-life people, like those on Threads of Life.
Threads of Life is a support network for families suffering from workplace fatalities, life-altering injuries, or occupational diseases. To prevent future tragedies, they’re sharing their stories.
These stories turn workplace safety from a faceless ideology into true tales you can empathize with. They’re about real people and real lives being forever changed. So, dive into Threads of Life's stories and share them with your kid — it'll give them a whole new perspective on staying safe on the job.
Assumption 4: It's the employer's responsibility to keep my kid safe
Reality: While employers have a responsibility for worker safety, your teen has a role to play too. Workers should actively engage in safety practices, use provided safety equipment, and report unsafe conditions. It's a joint effort between the employer and the worker to create a safe workplace.
What you can do: Encourage your teen to take personal responsibility for their well-being, follow safety guidelines, and speak up if they see something unsafe. Take a look at Empower your teen: 10 expert tips for holding safety talks with bosses for advice to help your kid bring up safety issues.