Case analysis of a young worker fatality: Focus on prevention

Young workers are at risk of workplace injury because of their physical, cognitive and emotional developmental characteristics and because they often lack adequate job training. In 2007, an estimated 48,600 work-related injuries and illnesses among youth 15 to 17 years of age were treated in hospital emergency departments. In 2008, 34 youth under the age of 18 died from work-related injuries. Employers should realize that young workers need training and guidance to keep safe at work. OSHA is committed to identifying ways to improve young worker safety and health. This presentation by an OSHA health scientist will review a case study of a young worker fatality describing the facts of the case, relevant workplace hazards and OSHA's investigation and findings. Discussion will focus on how the fatality could have been prevented and what steps can be taken to protect young workers in similar tasks and workplaces.