School holidays means influx of under-18 workers
With the summer holidays upon us, Aviva, is urging employers to ensure a safe working environment for young people.
During 2008, there were a number of large loss claims involving workers under the age of 18, due to a mixture of causes including powered machinery and equipment.
Phil Grace, liability risk manager, Aviva’s UK Insurance business, said: “The lack of experience and maturity of young people, as well as a reduced perception of risk, can be extremely dangerous in a working environment, particularly where machinery is involved.
“Assessments to determine the risks associated with any young worker are required by law under the Health and Safety (Young Persons) Regulations 1997. Following that, the employee must be trained on the necessary control measures, and employers have a duty to ensure their parents or guardians are also aware of any risks involved.” says Grace.
“Where an assessment identifies harmful exposure to toxic substances, radiation, extreme cold or heat, vibration, noise or work which is beyond their physical capacity, it is prohibited to employ a young person to carry out the work.
“This is also the case in specific trades or where the use of certain plant or machinery is required.”
