Health and safety reminder for young tradies

While tradies of all ages should ensure they act in compliance with health and safety regulations, workers under the age of 25 should take particular care, the general manager of the health and safety division of WorkCover NSW asserted earlier this month.

A new year often means new jobs - and for some young people, even their first job, explained John Watson.

School leavers and other young workers are at particular risk of suffering an injury in the workplace, he explained, noting that approximately 12 per cent of total workplace injuries and occupational diseases are suffered by the state's lowest age bracket of workers.

Watson said: "During 2009-10 almost 5,000 compensation claims were lodged by young workers with the most common injuries being muscular stress while lifting, carrying or putting down objects."

He added: "Workers aged under 25 may be more vulnerable to workplace safety risks because of their youth and inexperience or reluctance to speak up about safety concerns."

Tradies need to ensure they follow appropriate safety protocols and ensure they take the correct measures to protect their health and wellbeing.

At the start of the year, the Australian Council of Trade Unions launched its Speak Up initiative, which encourages workers to be aware of their new rights under the harmonised health and safety legislation across most states and territories.