Now that summer is here, young adults in Ohio and throughout the country are looking for summer jobs, allowing them to earn some extra spending money. And since the National Safety Council recognizes June as National Safety Month, it is time to address the safety issues that may arise when hiring part-time or temporary employees, especially when it is a first job for many of these people.
Employers should create an environment of awareness in the workplace. By remaining aware of surroundings and personal limitations, an employee can avoid unnecessary injuries that could lead to the necessity of a workers’ compensation claim. Even when safety is a primary concern for both the employer and the employee, accidental injuries can and do still happen.
Such injuries may result in time spent away from the job. Spending time on the job directly after an injury can result in long-term, physical complications.
The Ohio Bureau of Workers’ Compensation is reminding both young adults and employers that as young adults enter the workforce, it is necessary to ensure that they are properly trained to address any tasks they are assigned. This responsibility falls on the employer. Without proper training, unnecessary injuries can occur. Many believe that young adults are at a heightened risk for unnecessary injuries because they are inexperienced and sometimes reluctant to ask questions.
Some may take on tasks that they have not been trained to perform without admitting. The BWC offers a tool kit that reviews hazards that young adults are likely to come across when working summer jobs. The kits, which address ways to prevent injury, are provided for young adults, educators, parents and employers.
Source: WorkersCompensation.com, “Awareness Key To Preventing Injury Among Young Adults Working Summer Jobs,” June 20, 2012