Millions of teenagers are taking on their first summer jobs this year. Fresh faces bring energy and ideas, but lack of work experience raises risks: of 2.3 million U.S. teen workers between 15 and 17 in one recent year, thousands suffered on-the-job injuries that sent them to the hospital — most within the first 12 months of employment — and 34 teens under age 18 died from work-related injuries.
Teenage workers face a variety of risk factors on the job. They often lack knowledge of physical, biological, chemical, and other hazards, which increases the chance of injury; for guidance on managing chemical and related hazards, see Workplace Safety and Chemical Management.
A widespread feeling of invincibility may lead teens to take unnecessary risks. They might not understand their rights and responsibilities or which tasks are illegal for them.
A desire to prove themselves can lead teens to do unsafe things, and a reluctance to appear ignorant can keep them from asking safety-related questions.
Help address these problems by providing safety training tailored to new teenage employees. Organizations such as the American Society of Safety Engineers (ASSE), the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH), and Oregon OSHA publish training resources and interactive tools geared to young workers.
To train your teen employees, use Oregon OSHA guidelines and customize them to your workplace.
How to train teen employees
- Give teens clear instructions on the safety precautions to take for each task.
- Ask them to repeat your instructions and to ask questions whenever they don't understand.
- Demonstrate — or have an experienced employee demonstrate — how to perform each task.
- Watch teens as they perform each task and correct mistakes until they get it right.
- Ask once more if they have any more questions.
- Keep checking to ensure they continue to perform tasks correctly and safely.
For additional workplace guidance, see Workplace Safety and Risk Management. If you'd like assistance creating and implementing a teen worker safety program, talk to an agent.
Frequently Asked Questions
What basic topics should teen worker safety training cover?
Cover hazard recognition, safe work procedures, required personal protective equipment (PPE), emergency steps, and how to report hazards or injuries.
How can I encourage teens to speak up about safety?
Create an open, nonpunitive culture, invite questions during training, and assign a mentor or supervisor who checks in regularly.
Are there tasks teens should never perform?
Many jurisdictions restrict hazardous tasks for minors; review local rules and keep teens away from high-risk equipment or operations until fully trained and legally allowed.
What should I do after a teen has a near miss or minor injury?
Investigate the cause, update training or procedures as needed, and follow up with the employee to reinforce safe work practices.