While many young people gain valuable experience and financial benefits from being able to work in Alberta, the safety of those workers must be a priority.
Protecting teenagers from unacceptable risks and hazards on the worksite is and should remain the responsibility of both employers and the provincial government.
In an effort to improve and update workplace rules for young people, the province has introduced several changes to existing legislation – and is asking residents for comments on the initiative.
Whether the updated rules will lead to safer workplaces for young people remains to be seen. What is known is that efforts aimed at protecting young people are always worthwhile.
The proposed changes include that waged, non-family youth age 13 to 15 can do any work that is not deemed hazardous, that 15-year-olds can do most jobs except hazardous work, and that youth aged 13 to 14 can take light work jobs such as food assembly and retail.
For her part, Labour Minister Christine Grey says updating workplace legislation for young people is in everyone’s best interest.
“Our priority has always been to make sure young workers don’t get hurt while on the job,” said Grey. “Our updated labour laws mean young Albertans will have better protection while increasing job opportunities through training and mentorship. To do this, we’re asking for feedback on the proposed modernized rules, so that we get this right.
“The government is looking to hear from Albertans on how these changes will ensure the health and safety of young workers.”
The proposed changes follow consultations with employers, business organizations, labour groups, and other stakeholders.
It is the first major updating of Alberta’s labour laws for young people in 30 years.
Residents who want to provide comments or suggestions about the proposed changes can do so until June 29 by emailing [email protected].
Protecting young workers in Alberta is in everyone’s best interest. As such, residents are encouraged to provide input into this initiative aimed at improving and updating existing legislation.
- Singleton is the Mountain View Gazette editor
