Keeping Newcomers and Youth Safe
Creating a safe start for every worker
Starting a new job can be exciting—and overwhelming. For newcomers and young workers, the first day often brings new rules, new routines, and sometimes a new language or culture. Patience, clear communication, and supportive supervision make all the difference.
Safety begins with understanding. Employers and supervisors play a key role in making sure every worker—no matter their age, experience, or background—understands their rights, responsibilities, and how to stay safe.
Safety basics for newcomers and youth
New workers—whether they’re young, new to Canada, or simply new to the job—face many of the same challenges. They’re eager to do well but may hesitate to speak up or ask questions.
Employers and supervisors, here’s how you can help:
- Explain workplace safety rights and responsibilities in plain language
- Explain safety rules clearly, and check for understanding
- Show how to use tools, equipment, and protective gear
- Ask workers to repeat or demonstrate tasks to confirm understanding
- Encourage questions—especially during the first few weeks
- Reinforce that it’s always okay to stop and ask for help
- Keep safety part of everyday conversation
- Introduce workers to the people they can go to with questions—supervisors, safety reps, or experienced coworkers
- Pair new workers with experienced mentors whenever possible
Think back to your first job. The support you provide now sets the tone for how these workers approach safety for years to come.
Let them know how to report unsafe work—1-800-9LABOUR
If the concern involves your workplace, they should follow your internal safety procedures first. Those procedures should include notifying their supervisor or Joint Occupational Health and Safety Committee. If their issues are not resolved, or they notice unsafe work in other workplaces let they should know about 1-800-9LABOUR.
Keeping newcomers safe
Newcomers may face unique challenges when learning workplace safety. Differences in language, communication style, or cultural norms can affect how they ask questions or respond to authority.
Many newcomers:
- May hesitate to speak up because they are unsure of cultural expectations or their legal rights
- May not know that they can receive income support and health care coverage through WCB if they are hurt at work
- May come from cultures where mental health or psychological injury are not commonly discussed—or may face stigma when seeking help
Supervisors can help:
- Use simple, direct language and avoiding slang or expressions that might be confusing
- Demonstrate safety procedures instead of only explaining them
- Check for understanding instead of assuming it
- Encourage two-way communication and offering translation support when possible
- Explain what happens if someone is hurt at work, including WCB health-care coverage, income support, and return-to-work programs
- Talk openly about mental health and psychological safety, and let workers know that support is available without judgment
- Be mindful of different faiths, customs, and family obligations that can affect work schedules or interactions
A respectful, inclusive approach helps all workers feel valued and supported—and leads to safer workplaces.
Keeping young workers safe
Young workers bring energy and enthusiasm to the job, but often lack experience. They may rush to impress, skip safety steps, or stay quiet when unsure.
Supervisors should:
- Point out potential hazards and how to avoid them
- Make sure personal protective equipment fits and is used correctly
- Explain safe work procedures and emergency steps
- Keep talking about safety—every day, in every meeting
- Encourage young workers to slow down and take the time they need to work safely
- Lead by example—wear your PPE, follow procedures, and show that safety always comes first
Young workers who see their leaders and coworkers practicing safety are more likely to do the same.
Mental health
Everyone has the right to a workplace free of harassment and bullying. Learn about preventing behaviour in your workplace that can lead to psychological injuries with these resources.
Training and support resources
These tools can help you reinforce safety during orientation and throughout a worker’s first weeks on the job:
- Free online course: New and Vulnerable Worker Safety on Skills Online NS. This course gives workers the information they need to stay safe in a new job. It covers who is responsible for safety, what hazards to watch for, and basic steps to prevent injuries.
- Workplace and technical safety resources: Nova Scotia Workplace and Technical Safety. This site offers posters, information cards, and safety resources in multiple languages.
- Internal Responsibility System (IRS) video: What is the IRS? —a short video explaining how everyone shares responsibility for safety at work.