Shocking figures show young people at risk in the workplace - MEP
June 20, 2006 5:38 PM
Thousands of young people are being put needlessly at risk in the workplace by employers who do not take the necessary precautions to preserve their health and safety according to Lib Dem Employment spokesperson Liz Lynne MEP.
Statistics across Europe show that employees between the ages of 18 and 24 are at least 50% more likely to suffer a work related injury than their older and more experienced colleagues.
Speaking today after the launch of the "Safe Start" campaign aimed at improving the working conditions of the European Union's 75 million young people, Liz Lynne said:
"Workplace accidents are extremely concerning no matter what age the person is, but it is very troubling that young people are so much more likely to suffer work-related injuries."
"These accidents occur for a wide variety of reasons such as lack of training and experience as well as a lack of awareness of occupational health and safety. Hopefully this European Health and Safety campaign will encourage people to treat this problem with the seriousness it deserves."
"Employers, schools and youth organisations must all work together to not only ensure that workplaces are safer, but that young people are mindful of potential injury so that we can develop a culture of risk avoidance and prevention in the workplace."
ENDS
Notes to Editors
1.Safe Start features a wide range of engaging quizzes, interactive learning materials and events, including good practice awards and a competition to find the European Young Film Maker of the Year on a health and safety theme. The campaign culminates in the European Week for Safety and Health at Work from 23 - 27 October 2006, with a range of awareness-raising activities being organised across Europe.
2.http://osha.eu.int/press_room/European_Week_2006_launch_2006-06-20
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