SafeWork encourages workplaces to prioritise safety of young employees during NSW Youth Week

SafeWork Encourages Workplaces to Prioritise Safety of Young Employees During NSW Youth Week

New South Wales workplace safety regulator says Youth Week (April 9-17) presents an ideal opportunity for employers of young individuals to guarantee that they operate within a setting providing appropriate training, supervision, and encourages workers to voice any concerns they may have. SafeWork NSW is marking Youth Week by urging employers across all industries to prioritise safety for young employees entering the workforce.

Why Young Employees Face Higher Workplace Risk

Statistics reveal that in New South Wales, over half a million workers aged 25 and below hold jobs across various sectors. Annually, more than 15,000 of these young workers sustain injuries on the job, leading to $60 million in workers' compensation claims. This highlights the necessity for employers to recognise both the human and financial implications of failing to take action.

SafeWork NSW has shared resources outlining specific hazards young employees commonly encounter, including manual handling risks, hazardous machinery, and unsafe electrical equipment. These figures underline why OHS obligations toward younger staff deserve closer attention from every business owner.

Which Industries Need to Act

SafeWork NSW states that every business, spanning sectors such as agriculture, hospitality, manufacturing, and construction, must take measures to ensure the safety of their working environments. Manufacturing sites in particular carry elevated exposure to hazardous substances and electrical equipment, making thorough safety systems non-negotiable for employers hiring younger staff.

• Provide clear induction and OHS training before young employees begin hazardous tasks
• Supervise electrical work and machinery operation closely until competency is confirmed
• Communicate fair pay entitlements and rostering expectations from day one
• Encourage open reporting of unsafe conditions without fear of repercussion

SafeWork's Message to Young Workers

Key message from SafeWork to young workers states that if any doubt arises regarding safety of a task, or if they remain unsure how to execute it safely, they should immediately stop and consult with someone who can provide assistance. This applies equally to electrical hazards, hazardous chemicals handling, or unfamiliar machinery operation.

SafeWork NSW's message reinforces that health and OHS protections exist to safeguard every employee, regardless of age or experience level. Employers who invest in a genuine safety check-up ahead of Youth Week demonstrate real commitment to protecting their newest staff.

Building a Safer Workplace Culture

Promoting young worker safety requires more than a single awareness campaign — it demands consistent OHS practices woven into daily operations. Businesses seeking practical tools can review resources such as an electrical safety checklist to identify potential hazards before they cause harm.

For employers wanting broader guidance on maintaining compliant systems, SafetyDocs offers support services tailored to businesses of every size. Similar regulator-led initiatives, including how SafeWork NSW encourages workplaces to prioritise safety when conducting flood cleanup, reflect a consistent national push toward stronger workplace protections across all age groups.

Employers can also review efforts such as NSW encourages workplaces to maintain safety during this National Asbestos Awareness Week and the NHVR encourages drivers to prioritise safety of others during National Road Safety Week for further context on how regulators nationwide approach targeted safety campaigns.

Learn more here.