Workers aged 14 and 15 cannot start work without certificate of completion
As young people wrap up the school year and start applying for summer jobs, the government of Saskatchewan is reminding them to look into the employment and safety rules that apply to young workers.
Most importantly, 14- and 15-year-old workers need to have completed their Young Worker Readiness Certificate Course (YWRCC) before they can enter the workforce. The course teaches young workers about their rights and responsibilities. Students will learn the basics about employment standards and workplace health and safety.
“Although this information is useful for anyone, it is targeted towards young people getting ready to start their first job,” Labour Relations and Workplace Safety Minister Don Morgan said. “We want young workers to feel comfortable enough to ask questions when they don’t understand what is expected of them and refuse work they feel is unsafe.”
Young workers may apply for jobs and go for interviews before completing the course. They may not start work until they have provided their employer with a copy of their certificate of completion. Young workers must also provide written consent from their parent or guardian. Employers are required to keep certificates and parental consent on file.
Young workers are only allowed to work limited hours during the school year. They are also not permitted to work in certain industries under Occupational Health and Safety regulations.
To learn more about the YWRCC or to take the online course, visit www.saskatchewan.ca/ywrcc.
