One of the most satisfying aspects of watching your children grow up is seeing them take their first summer or after-school job. Not only are they moving one big step closer to independence, but they are getting a taste of real-world responsibility, including money management and learning to work as part of a team.

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the food services industry is the top employer of teenagers. While it would seem logical that an industry relying so heavily on young workers would have solid safety programs in place, it's naïve to make such assumptions. An Industrial Accident Prevention Association (IAPA) survey found that 56 percent of young workers polled said they had received no safety training whatsoever before being assigned a new task.

10 Hazards Young Workers Should Know

If your son or daughter is starting a job in food services, here are some key hazards you can discuss with them.

1. Foodborne illnesses
Frequent hand washing, especially after using a bathroom or handling raw foods such as poultry, can prevent the spread of illness.

2. Slips, trips and falls
Floors must be kept clean and dry and appropriate slip-resistant footwear must be worn. Never carry a load so large that it blocks your vision.

3. Chemicals
Never mix bleach with ammonia; deadly chlorine gas may be released. Know what personal protective equipment, including gloves, you should be using. Always read labels and follow instructions.

4. Strains/Sprains
Repetitive reaching across tables to place or retrieve dishes can cause pain and muscle strain. Never carry more than you can handle comfortably. Ask for help in lifting tables and other heavy objects.

5. Electrocution
Don't go near an electrical appliance or outlet while standing on a wet floor. Never handle plugs with wet hands. If a cord is frayed or cracked, don't use an appliance. Tell your supervisor. Never go near a person who has received an electrical shock until the power has been shut off.

6. Burns
Avoid exposure to steam. Let hot dishes cool before touching. Check sink water temperatures before plunging hands into water.

7. Cuts
When cutting food, ensure that your fingers aren't in the way if the knife slips. Cut away from your body. Never use fingers to pick up broken glass. Sweep it up. Don't compress a trash bag with your hands or body. It may contain items that could cut you. If you find a discarded needle, don't touch it. Tell your supervisor.

8. Workplace violence
Ensure back doors to restaurants are kept locked. Know your state or provincial laws regarding how late you can work and whether you should be working alone.

9. Cooking
Know the laws regarding minimum ages for being allowed work as a cook. Be careful around hot oil. Use correct grease temperature and level. Wear aprons and protective clothing. Know how to extinguish a grease fire (never use water!) Don't reach over hot surfaces.

10. Heat illnesses
Working in a high-temperature restaurant without air conditioning in the dead of summer can cause life-threatening heat stroke. Wear cool clothing, take cool-down breaks and drink plenty of water.

Remind Young Workers of Their Rights

Remind your teenagers that they have the right to know of hazards they may encounter and the right to refuse any task they believe is dangerous.

But remember: teenagers don't necessarily know or recognize workplace dangers. So check with them frequently to ensure they are receiving safety training and supervision. If not, talk to your child's manager. If that doesn't bring results, pull your child from the job and contact safety authorities.

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