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Episode 8, Part 1: Young people in construction and renewables - what are the risks and benefits?


With more young people and apprentices being encouraged to join the construction and infrastructure sectors, including via the Government Kickstart scheme, what are the safety implications?

Research has shown that young workers (within the age group of 15 to 24 years) are 50% more likely to be involved in an accident at work, compared with the rest of the workforce. Occupational Safety and Health (OSH) found that a range of factors contribute to this, which we explore in this episode.*

In part one of this two-part episode, we talk to leaders in the field, employers and young people themselves to uncover the facts, the risks, differences in generational needs, and the steps that need to be taken to ensure young people are working safely. Featured guests are Jennifer Webster, Chartered Psychologist and Registered Occupational Psychologist at HSE’s Science and Research Centre, Lauren Little, Stake Holder Advisor for the Humber at Ørsted, and Oliver Booth, Apprentice Wind Turbine Technician at Ørsted.

Ultimately, this is about more than just young people in construction, renewables, and infrastructure. With the right inspiration, opportunities and work culture, employers can foster environments which nurture a vertical slice of the workforce, from the apprentices to the most senior members of staff.

Stay tuned for part two of this discussion.

*source: Occupational Safety and Health (OSH) Wiki: Young People – Jennifer Webster, Health & Safety Laboratory, UK: https://oshwiki.eu/wiki/Young_workers

If you would like further information on how best to support your younger workforce please go to young people at work (hse.gov.uk). HSE also has a range of advice and guidance about protecting the health and safety of other potentially vulnerable groups of workers (new recruits, older workers, migrant workers, lone workers, temporary workers, new and expectant mothers) available at Vulnerable workers – HSE.