Alberta farmers who hire young workers will soon have to follow a set of new rules, particularly around work that could be considered hazardous.
The youth employment rules still have to be finalized, though the province has released a set of proposals that will dictate what younger workers can and can’t do.
The proposals state that waged, non-family workers from 13 to 15 can’t do any work that is considered hazardous.
Hazardous work includes working in a confined space and being exposed to chemicals or biological substances that may pose a danger, as well as taking part in the slaughtering or butchering of animals, except if it’s for retail food preparation.
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As well, it’s proposed that teenagers at that age don’t work at heights of three metres or more, where they could fall into a hazardous situation or opening in a work surface.
None of these rules will apply to family members, neighbours or volunteers.
Albert Kamps, chair of the AgCoalition, a producer group that’s been consulting with the government on the new farm safety rules, said farmers don’t put young people in situations where they would be working at high levels or in enclosed spaces.
“Most farms go above and beyond for safety, so I don’t think this will have a big difference,” said Kamps, who runs a dairy farm near Lacombe, Alta.
The government plans to impose these rules to improve the safety of young people in the workplace. Such rules haven’t been updated since 1988.
“Our priority has always been to make sure young workers don’t get hurt while on the job,” Labour Minister Christina Gray said in a news release.
“Our updated labour laws mean young Albertans will have better protection while increasing job opportunities through training and mentorship.”
Young people between 16 and 17 can do hazardous work but they must receive a permit from Employment Standards to do so.
To receive a permit, consent must be given by the teenager’s parent, guardian or other person who has lawful care, custody or control.
As well, the employer must ensure the health, safety and well-being of younger employees and that they are supervised by a responsible adult. The young employee must also be adequately trained in advance.
The province is reviewing feedback on the proposals and will likely finalize the youth employment rules by the end of this year.
