Young trade unionists from all over the world are meeting prior to the G20 Labour and Employment Ministerial Meeting to discuss the dramatic situation of young people looking for a job.
Youth
Youth are particularly at risk from health and safety hazards in the workplace.
Did you know that in 2008, 51 workers between the ages of 15-24 were killed in fatal accidents in Canadian workplaces. In addition, 44,836 workers in this same age group had injuries serious enough to qualify for compensation.
The key to preventing injuries is training and knowing your rights as a worker:
- The Right to Know
Each of us has the right to know of workplace hazards, safety policies and procedures, as well as the regulations pertaining to their workplace. - The Right to Participate
We all have the right to participate in health and safety at work – speaking out when something is unsafe, reporting accidents when they happen. - The Right to Refuse
Every worker has the right to refuse unsafe or dangerous work without fear of reprisals.
A union protects your rights and advocates for your health and safety. Although your employer is ultimately responsible for your training and compliance with health and safety regulations, your union is a partner in this process and the place you can plug in.
Joint Health and Safety Committees (JHSCs) often post minutes of meetings or notices on workplace bulletin boards. Find out who's your union rep on the JHSC and who you should speak to if you have a safety concern.
NUPGE's new flyer on Young Workers' Health and Safety - Download
No Union?
The National Union website provides the latest news on health and safety issues. If you don't have a union you still have the right to safety at work. Nothing replaces a union contract but you can gain some of the benefits of belonging to a union by joining the National Union's Associate Membership Program.
As a member you will have access to discounts on life, car and health insurance. You'll be a click away from legislative tools, including the Occupational Health and Safety (OH&S) legislation for each province. In addition there are forums and discussion groups that can help with trouble-shooting, or simply sharing your experiences with other associate members.
It's simple to join and right now it's FREE. Click Here!
Occupational Health and Safety Acts
Association of Workers' Compensation Boards of Canada - a handy listing of all jurisdictions
Young Workers Resource Sites
Young Worker Awareness Program - true stories about young Ontario workers and a wealth of resources to prepare for workplace risks.
Young Workers Zone - Canadian Centre for Occupational Health and Safety young workers resource page.
Young Worker - Workers' Safety and Insurance Board of Ontario action site: how to make a complaint, how to prepare yourself for work and other resources.
What Does an Accident Really Cost? - WorkSafeBC has created this on-line tool to look at the real impact both financially and personally of common workplace injuries.
Raise Your Hand – Interactive site for young workers to share views and stories with other workers.
Silence doesn't work here - A fun blog that encourages young workers to speak up
Who wants to save life?
Newfoundland Workers Health and Safety launches a trivia game show!
Saskatchewan requires H&S training for youth
As of March 31, 2010 14- and 15-year-olds will be required to complete a young worker safety course and obtain a certificate of completion.
Unqualified Operation of Excavator Kills Young Worker
The senseless death of a 23-year-old construction worker in England shows the importance of keeping untrained and unqualified workers away from heavy duty equipment.
NUPGE signs on to Bottled Water Free Day
The National Union of Public and General Employees joins the Polaris Institute, the Canadian Federation of Students and the Sierra Youth Coalition in drawing attention to the environmental and social justice impact of corporate water.
Documentary focuses on unions and young workers
'How they can become the new leadership, incorporating their hopes and concerns.'
Young Worker’s Broken Arm Costs Company $50,000
Proper lifting and moving protocols could have avoided this accident.
Workplace Bullying Leads to Suicide and Over $300,000 in Fines
On Feb. 8, 2010, an Australian café, its owner, its manager, a waiter and a chef were convicted under Victoria’s Occupational Health and Safety Act for viciously bullying a 19-year-old worker both physically and emotionally to the point where she jumped off a building to her death.
Ergonomic risks for young workers
"Youth and adolescents are routinely engaged in manual material handling (MMH) tasks that may exceed their strength capability to perform the task."
News Archive
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