Young Worker Awareness Program

Overview:

It's purpose is to convey health and safety information to young workers entering the workforce for the first time so that they will be aware of their rights and responsibilities, as well as those of their employers. It will help them to identify potential workplace hazards and to know which questions to ask when they enter the workplace. The goal of the program is the prevention of workplace injuries and illness.

Why is this program important?

On average, more than 18,000 workers between 15 and 24 years are reported injured on the job each year and several are killed on the job. Approximately 100 lose an eye, an arm or a leg.

The importance of being aware of potential hazards on the job cannot be over-emphasized. Not all injuries are apparent right away. There are many hazardous substances whose health effects are not immediately noticeable. Occupational diseases like cancer or other chronic diseases, may take years to develop. Also, many of the substances that harm our environment, originate in the workplace. While most people are aware of the damage that can be done to the environment, many are unaware of the health problems environmental pollutants can cause to workers who are exposed to these same substances in the workplace.

For all of the above reasons, it is vitally important that young workers understand their rights and responsibilities at work and that they are not afraid to ask questions about job hazards.

Getting more information:

Glossary & Acronyms

Safety Organization Links

This digital collection was produced under contract to the SchoolNet Digital Collections program, Industry Canada.