Employing young workers this summer? Here’s what you need to know

Now that summer is in full swing, it’s a good time to make sure everything is on track.

Source: DOL Wage and Hour Division (via Linked In)
Photo: Courtesy

Every summer, thousands of employers across the country give young people their first work experience. That’s a meaningful contribution. If you’ve hired youth for seasonal employment during the warmer months, you probably know which rules to follow (see our June article on this topic for a refresher).

Now that summer is in full swing, it’s a good time to make sure everything is on track.

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Common child labor violations

Recognizing violations can help employers avoid costly mistakes and keep young workers safe. Below is a list highlighting common workplace violations.

• Working longer or later than legally allowed
• Driving a motor vehicle when not permitted
• Using certain power-driven machinery
• Performing hazardous work

Three things to keep in mind

1. Where do violations tend to occur and why? Investigations from the past five years show restaurants account for most youth employment violations, followed by janitorial services and supermarkets. These violations typically involve the work hours of 14- and 15-year-old employees. Violations also result from minors performing dangerous work, including operating compactors or balers or power-driven bakery machinery. Employers are encouraged to review scheduling practices and ensure front line supervisors understand youth employment restrictions.
2. What are the hours limits? The maximum hours a young person can work vary by age. Between June 1 and Labor Day, employees aged 14 or 15 may only work between 7 a.m. and 9 p.m., and a maximum of eight hours per day and 40 hours per week when school is not in session. There is no federal hours limit for 16- and-17-year-old workers. Employers should keep in mind that states may have stricter requirements. WHD’s timesheet app is a free tool to help log time accurately and simplify schedule tracking.
3. If employers have youth employment violations, what kind of penalties do they face? Violations don’t always result in fines, but serious offenses can carry  up to the maximum penalty for each violation which is currently more than $16,000.00. Penalties for child labor cases can vary by the seriousness of the offense, the number of minors involved, or whether employers knew their actions were unlawful.

Resources for employers

Wage and Hour’s Youth Employment Toolkit was designed specifically for employers and provides helpful best practices. In addition, YouthRules.gov is a go-to resource for employers, parents, and young workers.

WHD is here to help employers get this right, because when young workers have safe and positive first experiences on the job, everyone benefits. Follow the Wage and Hour Division on LinkedIn for more employment guidance.