Young workers are often inexperienced workers, which means they haven’t necessarily developed good habits where workplace safety is concerned. That said, they probably haven’t developed bad ones, either. Right from the start, it’s important to create a culture where young workers know their rights, are encouraged to ask questions and understand the importance of following safety rules.

In this section of the site you’ll find some great tools and tips for young worker safety, whether you’re an employee or employer. If you’d like more detail or a program specifically for your young workers, contact Montana State Fund. We love getting young workers started down the path to workplace safety.

Hooray thumb, feet, arms and safety!

Young Workers image

Work safely. So you can hike, climb, dance, boat, game,
text, fish, hunt, camp and soak up that thing called life.

Enjoy all that you enjoy in life.

Working safely is about more than your job, it can help you maximize the time you spend outside work. That’s important to keep in mind because workers under age 25 are nearly twice as likely to get injured on the job as more seasoned workers. Following safety tips like this, might change that.

1. Know Your Rights. All employees in Montana have a right to safety training, appropriate safety gear, a safe environment, safe equipment, etc. It’s the responsibility of the employer to provide these and the responsibility of the worker to pay attention and put all that safety to good use.

2. Ask Questions. Too often young workers “fake it to make it.” In other words, they act like they know how to operate a machine or complete a task, even when they don’t. And that causes injuries. Employers, be clear when training or providing instructions and encourage questions. Young workers, listen to that voice inside you and if it’s saying, “Huh?” or “How does this work again?” raise your hand.

3. Follow Safety Rules. It’s so tempting to not put down a saw guard when you need to make a quick cut or to not use a hand truck when moving something heavy a short distance. Problem is, that one short cut can create pain and suffering for a very long time. Employers, be specific about safety rules, post them clearly and don’t tolerate violations. Young workers, follow the rules and if you don’t know them, well, reread tip #2.