Young persons construction risk assessment

A comprehensive Risk Assessment for young persons working on a construction site

Young individuals, specifically those defined as being under the age of 18, are permitted to work on construction sites; however, this is subject to stringent regulations and requirements aimed at safeguarding their health and safety. Notably, children under the age of 16 are generally prohibited from being employed on construction sites, except in circumstances where the work is part of an educational work experience program.

In legal terms, a "young person" is categorised as anyone who has not yet reached 18 years of age. Furthermore, those below the minimum school leaving age—typically set at 16—are largely restricted from engaging in employment within industrial environments, including construction sites, unless they are participating in structured work experience designed for educational purposes.

Employers hold a significant legal obligation to ensure that young workers under 18 years old are not subjected to undue hazards that may arise from their relative inexperience or developmental stage. This responsibility encompasses providing comprehensive training and supervision tailored to the specific needs and abilities of young workers. It is essential that the tasks assigned to them are suitable for their physical strength and mental maturity, thereby reducing the likelihood of accidents or injuries.

Due to their limited experience and sometimes reduced awareness of potential safety concerns, young workers typically require more oversight compared to seasoned employees. It is imperative that they receive appropriate training and clear instructions to recognise workplace hazards and understand established safety protocols.

Risk assessments conducted by employers must explicitly consider the unique needs and vulnerabilities of young persons, taking into account their potential limitations and the inherent risks associated with particular job responsibilities.

Moreover, young employees possess specific rights related to their working conditions, including regulations on working hours that allow for shorter shifts and extended rest periods to prevent fatigue and promote overall well-being.

Employees aged 16 and older are entitled to receive at least the National Minimum Wage, ensuring they are compensated fairly for their labour.

In summary, while the legal framework does not categorically forbid young individuals from working on construction sites, it imposes a substantial obligation on employers to prioritize the safety and welfare of these young workers through meticulous training, vigilant supervision, and effective risk management strategies.

This document is:

• Recognised by local authorities
• Recognised by principal contractors
• Suitable for CDM sites
• Approved by H&S managers

It increases your chance of winning tenders and has been written by trained health and safety professionals.

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Some sample text from this document reads:

• Young persons to work a maximum of 40 hours per week
• 15-minute breaks are to be given after each 2 hours of work, in addition to the minimum statutory breaks of 30 minutes for every 4.5 hours worked.
• To have an uninterrupted 12-hour rest period for each 24 hours.
• To have two days off each week

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