There are both state and federal laws that protect workers under the age of 18 from being exposed to hazards and working unreasonable shifts. According to OSHA statistics, 335 young workers were killed in 2013. With proper preparation and training many of these deaths could have been prevented.
While employers are responsible for providing safe and healthy conditions for young employees, young workers have a responsibility to follow the safe work practices at their jobs. These are some of the key facts about child labor laws in the U.S.
Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA)
Formed to protect minors in both agricultural and non-agricultural sectors, this act includes specific child labor provisions, including laws restricting the number of hours that children under 18 can work per day and what types of jobs they can do. FLSA also establishes a minimum wage, overtime pay, and recordkeeping for part- and full-time child laborers on wages, hours, and other regular businesses practices. Once a child turns 18 these rules no longer apply. For child laborers, work permits are not required, but employers who desire it can receive a state issued age certificate. Federal law states that 14-15 year olds cannot work over 8 hours a day, with no more than 3 hours on a school day, and over 40 hours a week, with no more than 18 hours per week while in school. Minors are also not allowed to work before 7am or after 7pm respectively.
