A consultation site has been launched by the province of British Columbia where stakeholders and the public can review and comment on a proposed framework that outlines job types that could be deemed unsuitable for young workers.

The Ministry of Labour has undertaken this work to protect the health and safety of working children and youth. This also aligns BC with international child employment standards and other Canadian jurisdictions.

“Having a job can be a rewarding experience for young people, but it should never compromise their safety,” said Minister of Labour Harry Bains.

“Now that we have defined the kinds of jobs are suitable for youth 12 to 15, we are looking at what work is simply too hazardous for youth under 19. I encourage everyone to join this conversation.”

Stakeholders and the public at large can review and comment on the proposed framework wherein the ministry staff identified industries considered for BC’s hazardous work regulation for young people.

The ministry examined both WorkSafeBC injury data and other jurisdictions’ labour laws relating to hazardous employment to identify dangerous industries for the young. Construction, forestry, food processing, oil/gas and power, asbestos abatement and others were identified in the examination.

Between 2012 and 2021, WorkSafeBC data revealed more than $26.4 million was paid out in job-related disability claims for workers who were aged 16 to under-19 at the time of the injury.

Last year, new rules came into effect that raised the general minimum working age from 12 to 16, and identified what jobs are considered “light work” suitable for youth aged 14 to 15, with parental permission.

Children are still allowed to engage in babysitting, newspaper delivery, and work-study or work experience classes as these are among the jobs excluded from the rules.

The consultation can be accessed through government’s engagement site at: https://engage.gov.bc.ca/govtogetherbc