Guidance issued on protecting young workers

The Health and Safety Executive (HSE) has issued fresh guidance to help employers protect young workers, warning that people under 18 are especially vulnerable to workplace accidents.

According to the HSE, workers are as likely to have an accident in their first six months at a workplace as during the rest of their entire working life. Young people face even higher risks due to inexperience, a lack of physical maturity, and limited awareness of how to raise concerns.

The guidance covers employers’ responsibilities when hiring young people as workers, apprentices or on work experience placements. It highlights the need for clear instruction, robust supervision, and careful assessment of risk in all roles.

“Young people may be eager to impress or unsure how to speak up,” the HSE notes. “They need structured, supportive environments that prioritise safety and build confidence.”

The HSE also provides resources for schools, parents, carers and work experience organisers to help prepare young people for their first experience of the workplace.

Full guidance is available at: www.hse.gov.uk/youngpeople