As we mark Youth Week, SafeWork NSW highlights it as an opportune time for employers of young workers to provide the right training, supervision and to foster a workplace culture where staff feel confident in voicing their concerns. In New South Wales alone, more than half a million individuals under 25 years old are part of the labour force. Annual statistics reveal over 15,000 young employees suffer from work-related injuries leading to workers compensation claims amounting to $60 million. Therefore, it’s crucial that all employers comprehend both the tangible and intangible costs posed by negligence.
It is mandatory for all businesses, irrespective of whether it’s in the agriculture, hospitality or construction sector, to guarantee they’re cultivating safe working environments. Leading tools such as Bluesafe SWMS (Safe Work Method Statements) and the Bluesafe WHS Management System can be instrumental in planning and implementing effective safety measures. Employers are legally bound to provide these resources.
SafeWorkâs advice to younger staff members is clear – if you aren’t certain about the safety parameters of a task or lack knowledge on how to execute it securely, don’t hesitate to seek advice. The organisation also empowers workers to report unsafe situations anonymously via the Speak Up Save Lives webpage without fear of reprisal.
This year alone has seen numerous instances of youth being injured at worksites. To circumnavigate this, SafeWork has introduced a Young worker eToolkit. This comprehensive guide contains essential tips and training materials on work safety rights and responsibilities that cater to both employers and employees. A helpful YouTube video, “Five rights you have as a young worker,” amplifies on young workers’ safety rights.
In a statement, Head of SafeWork NSW Trent Curtin asserted, “Workplace incidents not only can lead to life-altering injuries, illnesses and even fatalities, it’s particularly tragic when these incidents involve young workers. Employers of trainees or young staff must thoroughly comprehend their roles in sustaining and enhancing the health and safety protocols at the workplace. Young employees often display considerable enthusiasm to make a positive impression, but due to their lack of experience and ongoing physical and mental development, they might hesitate to ask questions.”
It’s critical that youth are comfortable enough to voice their concerns, and employers need to invest time in ensuring such a safe workspace. No shortcoming in this aspect is worth the potential risk.
Original article link: https://www.safework.nsw.gov.au/news/safework-media-releases/nsw-youth-week-lets-put-our-young-workers-safety-first