Protecting New, Young, and Vulnerable Workers

When young workers join the workforce, comprehensive health, safety and wellbeing knowledge is essential. Together we can keep them healthy and safe at work.

Health and Safety Training as Part of On-Boarding

An effective on-boarding program should include a thorough introduction to workplace hazards, emergency procedures, and workers’ rights under the Occupational Health and Safety Act (OHSA). This knowledge empowers workers to recognize unsafe conditions and understand the importance of reporting hazards without fear of reprisal.

Employers in Ontario are legally required to provide information about workplace health, safety and wellbeing including:

• Required training:
  • Workplace Hazardous Materials Information System (WHMIS)
  • Supervisor Health and Safety Awareness
  • Worker Health and Safety Awareness
  • Workplace Harassment
  • Workplace Violence
  • Depending on the organization’s industry and nature of work, other required training could include:
    • Working at Heights
    • Fire Safety
    • Confined Spaces
    • Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)
  • Required posters: “Health and Safety Worker”, “In Case of Injury at Work (for organizations covered by WSIB) and “Name and locations of first aid trained employees and, for organizations with 20 or more employees, JHSC members”.
  • Required workplace policies: Health and safety, workplace violence and workplace harassment.
  • and other requirements.

Having an introduction to the above resources and more is essential to onboarding as well as where the new worker can find a copy of the OHSA.

Young Workers New to the Workforce May Need Guidance

Young workers—often between the ages of 15 and 24—may be unfamiliar with workplace expectations, the risks they might face, or their rights and responsibilities. Many are eager to impress and may hesitate to speak up if they feel unsafe or confused. This makes them especially vulnerable to workplace injuries and exploitation.

Supervisors and managers play a crucial role in supporting young workers. Regular check-ins, mentorship, and open communication channels help create an environment where these employees feel comfortable voicing concerns. Providing clear instructions, demonstrating safe work practices, and encouraging questions are key strategies for reducing risk and building young workers’ confidence.

How Schools Can Protect the Future of Our Workforce

Educators have a significant part to play in preparing students for the realities of the working world. By integrating health and safety education into school curricula, schools can help instil a culture of safety and awareness before students enter their first jobs. Providing resources and education on workplace safety to students helps to equip them with the knowledge they need to stay healthy and safe at work.

For co-op placements, PSHSA offers resources for students, teachers and workplace supervisors that are here to help.