Young workers run a high risk of being injured at work. There are many ways to reduce this risk.
If you spot a hazard in your workplace, bring it to the attention of your Delegate, Health and Safety Representative, Health and Safety Committee Member, Line Manager or Organiser.
You have the right to a safe and healthy at workplace, but this can only be achieved if you speak up.
Remember – you cannot be penalised for raising health and safety issues.
Increased Risk
If you’re aged between 15 and 24, your chances of being injured at work are much greater than those of older workers.
In fact, it’s estimated that workers aged 15 to 24 have a 74% greater risk of being injured at work than workers from all other age groups.
If you are at your first job or a new job, then you’re at an even greater risk of being injured at work.
Young workers are particularly vulnerable because of their relative inexperience and unfamiliarity with their work environment, systems of work and equipment.
The Law
Every worker has the right to a safe and healthy workplace.
It’s important to understand that employers have responsibilities towards you and that you also have responsibilities in the workplace.
Occupational health and safety laws are designed to protect and promote the wellbeing of all workers.
Speak Up
Don’t be hesitant about speaking up if you identify a risk in your workplace. Your Union is here to help.
The Role of the SDA
The SDA works to protect your health and safety at work by:
- Providing you with information regarding your rights
- Helping you resolve health and safety problem in your workplace (including raising these issues at local, state and national levels in necessary)
- Monitoring employer compliance with health and safety laws
- Lobbying governments to improve health and safety laws
If you have a health and safety problem at work, you can:
- Discuss it with your Delegate, Health and Safety Representative or Health and Safety Committee Member
- Speak to your line manager
- Raise it with your SDA Organiser
- Contact the SDA
More Info
If you would like a copy of the full Vital Information For Young Workers booket or have questions or concerns, or would simply like more information on occupational health and safety issues, contact the SDA.
The full information booklet available to all SDA young members contains information on:
- Common hazards in the retail and fast food industries
- Manual handling
- Burns
- Bullying, harassment and workplace violence
- Plant and equipment safety
- Working with sharp implements
- Slips, trips and falls
- Employers' and employees responsibilities