TUMWATER, Wash.-As the summer job season gets underway, teens and young workers should be aware of their rights in the workplace.
Rules and laws are in place to protect younger workers and those new to the workforce should know they can say no to hazardous work, according to the Washington State Department of Labor and Industries.
L&I is reminding teens, parents, schools, and employers that state and federal law prohibits teens from working certain dangerous jobs and using hazardous equipment, depending on age.
“For their own safety, there are some jobs that minors just can’t do,” said Suzanne Dover, L&I youth employment specialist.
In Washington workers under age 18 can’t use power-driven woodworking machines, circular or band saws, chainsaws, and power-driven metal forming or shearing machines on the job.
Minors also can’t work in roofing, meat processing, or demolition, among other industries, according to L&I.
L&I provides a list of workplace rules regarding young workers online. A list of workplace duties young workers are prohibited from performing is also available.
