You never want to hear about any worker getting injured on the job, but you definitely don’t want to hear about kids getting hurt!
Unfortunately, a teenager in Oregon was injured when he was using a power-driven band saw. And, sadly, the entire situation never should have happened — since having the teen use the machine was a violation of state law.
Now, the Oregon Bureau of Labor and Industries (BOLI) Commissioner is reminding employers all over the state to keep a close eye on child labor laws. BOLI’s Commissioner says that this recent injury is a “perfect example of why employers should consult with BOLI before bringing minors in to work.”
How exactly can BOLI help you?
They have special technical assistance that can answer all of your questions. BOLI is also in the process of creating a handbook on child labor, so that every employer understands the laws that are on the books.
Had the company in question talked to BOLI before this teenager started working, they would have been told that he couldn’t use a band saw. Instead, the teen got hurt, and the company has to pay a $1,000 fine.
If you plan on having minors work for you, it’s important to keep up to date on state and federal laws. When there’s a difference between federal standards and an individual state’s laws, the rule that provides the most protection for the young worker is the one that applies.
Want to learn more about federal occupational standards for minors? Just click here!