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Young Workers

Keeping young workers safe and healthy in the workplace

A young worker wearing safety glasses and ear protection holds a wooden board. Young workers bring energy, new ideas, and motivation that can improve any workplace. At the same time, people under 25 are injured on the job more often than older adults. This isn't about ability—it's about experience, training, and the kinds of tasks young workers are often given.


Researchers have found several key reasons why young workers face higher risks. Young workers are more likely to…

  • Take on tasks they haven't done before, which can make it harder to recognize hazards.
  • Change jobs more often than older adults, which means constantly adjusting to new workplaces and expectations.
  • Feel pressure to prove themselves by working fast, taking on extra tasks, or avoiding mistakes.
  • Hold back questions because they don't want to seem inexperienced.
  • Have limited work experience, so they may not yet know what's normal—or what's unsafe.
  • Receive training that isn't designed for their age or skill level, making it harder to learn safety procedures.
  • Work with too little supervision, especially in busy or understaffed workplaces.
  • Are still developing physically, which can make them more vulnerable to injuries from chemicals, heavy lifting, repetitive motions, or long hours.
  • Work for employers who may not fully understand youth labor laws, including rules about hours, job duties, and hazardous tasks.