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Who is most likely to get injured at work?

Published in Youth Workplace Safety 3 mins read

Workers in their teens and early twenties are statistically most likely to suffer injuries on the job compared to older employees.

Younger workers, particularly those aged 15 to 24 years old, face a significantly higher risk of workplace injuries. This demographic is up to 2.3 times more likely to get injured on the job than workers who are 25 and older.

The severity of this risk is underscored by grim statistics; in 2021 alone, 398 workers under 25 tragically died after sustaining job-related injuries. This elevated risk for young individuals can be attributed to several factors inherent in their early career stages.

Why Are Younger Workers More Vulnerable?

Several factors contribute to the increased susceptibility of young workers to workplace injuries:
  • Lack of Experience: Many young workers are new to the workforce or specific job roles, meaning they may not have fully developed an understanding of workplace hazards or safety protocols.
  • Insufficient Training: Some employers may not provide adequate safety training, or young workers might be hesitant to ask questions or seek clarification.
  • Limited Awareness: They might be less aware of their rights regarding safe working conditions or less likely to recognize dangerous situations.
  • Eagerness to Please: Young workers might take on tasks they are not fully trained for or work at an unsafe pace due to an eagerness to impress employers.
  • Reluctance to Speak Up: They may be less likely to report unsafe conditions or express concerns about their safety for fear of jeopardizing their job.

Key Statistics on Young Worker Injuries

The disparity in injury rates is evident when comparing age groups:
Age Group Likelihood of Injury (Compared to 25+) Fatalities (Under 25 in 2021)
15-24 years old Up to 2.3 times more likely 398 deaths
25 years and older Baseline (Not specified in reference)
For more detailed statistics, the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) provides comprehensive data on occupational injuries and illnesses across all age groups.

Mitigating Risks for Young Workers

Addressing the higher injury rates among young workers requires a concerted effort from both employers and the workers themselves. Key strategies include:
  1. Comprehensive Safety Training: Employers should provide thorough and ongoing safety training, specifically tailored to the tasks and hazards young workers will encounter. This training should be easily understandable and regularly reinforced.
  2. Effective Supervision: Consistent and supportive supervision helps ensure young workers follow safety procedures and feel comfortable asking questions or reporting concerns.
  3. Hazard Identification and Control: Workplaces should proactively identify and mitigate potential hazards, ensuring that young workers are not assigned tasks that pose undue risks without proper safeguards.
  4. Encouraging Open Communication: Create a culture where young workers feel empowered to report unsafe conditions, near misses, or ask for help without fear of reprisal.
  5. Mentorship Programs: Pairing new, young workers with experienced mentors can provide valuable guidance and instill a stronger safety mindset.
Understanding these risks is crucial for fostering a safer working environment for all, especially for the newest members of the workforce.