Supervision of young workers (26 June 2024)

A 16-year-old worker was undertaking labouring work on the first floor of a construction site when he fell approximately 3.3 metres through a penetration sustaining serious injuries.

Photo of a work site several floors high, featuring a ladder on the left-hand side and a large square hole in the ground to the floor.
Photo showing an unsecured, unlabelled penetration.

Safety information

Consider ‘reasonably practicable’ control measures to manage the risks associated when working with young workers, working near open penetrations, and working at heights.

Ensure:

  • adequate supervision of young and inexperienced workers is provided having regard of their age, experience, and competence
  • penetrations and voids are covered with fit-for-purpose covers that are:
    • designed to withstand the load of workers and materials
    • securely fixed in position, and
    • clearly identified so they are not mistaken for construction material
  • all workers receive adequate information, training, and instruction
  • all workers complete a site induction
  • emergency plans are prepared, maintained and implemented
  • suitable communication systems are in place
  • guard rails are installed if penetrations or voids are large or are needed for temporary access
  • a site-specific SafeWork Method Statement (SWMS) is developed and implemented where the risk of falls is two metres or more.

Statistics

In NSW, there are more than half a million young people (aged 25 and under) in the workforce. More than 15,000 young people in NSW are injured at work each year, making up 14% of all workplace injuries in NSW.

By investing time and resources in young workers from their first day on the job, they are more likely to remain healthy and safe throughout their working life. This contributes to a happier and more efficient work environment.

The Young Workers e-Toolkit provides a range of resources developed to support young worker’s safety. This includes information tailored for young workers, employers, parents, and guardians as well as educators.

Related guidance material

Further information

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