Safety warning for young workers

SafeWork SA has issued a safety warning to employers about the risks to young workers by highlighting a successful prosecution.

The state regulator has emphasised the need to protect young workers and train them in safe working procedures after an 18-year-old man, just two months on the job at a salvage yard, slipped and fell through an opening while working on top of a mesh recycling cage.

As a result of the fall, the man's armpit was badly cut and he suffered bruising and abrasions to his knees.

"Time and time again our experience and research shows that young workers new to the job face the greatest risk of workplace injury," SafeWork SA acting director of field and frontline services, Neill Baker said.

The employer pleaded guilty to breaching the Occupational Health, Safety and Welfare Act 1986 and was issued a $14,875 fine.

Baker said that new recruits should be given the most thorough induction and safety training possible on the job to ensure their safety.