Evaluation of safety training for teenagers in regards to dangerous situation response for injury prevention

Background: Violent acts and assaults are responsible for 12% of work-related fatalities among young workers. Training for dangerous situations, such as robberies, could help prevent injury and fatalities among teenage workers. The extent to which teenagers are trained to properly respond to dangerous situations is an important component in preventing violent outcomes among working teens. This study evaluated teens' experiences regarding training and perception of safety at their jobs. Methods: Data was obtained from teenagers attending public high schools in Jefferson County, Kentucky, using qualitative and quantitative methods. Focus groups and interviews were conducted with 42 teens in April-May of 2010. In January-February of 2011 a survey of all teens in the schools was conducted. Results: Results from qualitative data showed that many teens interviewed expressed concern about personal safety when carrying money. In addition, these teens reported that they did not receive training on response during a robbery. Males were more likely to state that they were told how to respond. Analysis of recently collected survey data will further investigate the role of dangerous situation training on experiences of working teens, specifically focusing on the role of training in teen's perceptions of safety. Discussion: Our research shows that many teenagers receive safety training, yet that training does not always include information that can reduce exposure to injury or fatality during dangerous situations such as robbery. Since robberies often lead to fatal injuries or severe assault, teenagers should have explicit training on how to respond in these situations.