Connecticut’s Young Worker Health & Safety Team is comprised of professionals representing lead state agencies as well as federal programs and organizations whose work includes positive youth development in our schools, communities and workplaces. Since its inception in 1998, the Connecticut Young Worker Health and Safety Team has grown into a comprehensive membership of representatives from federal, state, local governmental and educational organizations. It is nationally recognized for its dedication to promoting and protecting the health, welfare, and safety of our young workers as they enter the working world.
The CT Young Worker Health and Safety Team offers professional development, resources, data and events focused on preparing youth, and the adults working with them, to better navigate the world of work. In particular, the Team offers workshops on Working Papers for school officials who have been chosen by the superintendent to oversee the wage and workplace laws specific to young workers. The Designees in the local school districts review Promise of Employment letters to determine whether the described tasks, hours and job locations are allowable for the minor’s age.
Team members offer professional development on young worker safety awareness to educators and have created exhibits and events for legislators and the public at the State Capitol to expand awareness of young workers – their history and their future. Currently, the Team is working with the State Department of Education on integrating curriculum at the local level into classroom lessons to promote workplace health and safety for teens and to prepare them for workplace learning experiences such as internships and apprenticeships as well as summer jobs and – eventually – careers.
The CT Young Worker Health and Safety Team provides informational support and educational materials to businesses, educators, parents, and Connecticut youth about their rights in the workplace. We offer trainings specific to youth as an opportunity to participate in important conversations about workplace hazards.
If you are interested in learning more about:
If you are interested in learning more about:
Working Papers, contact Marcy Reed (marcy.reed@ct.gov);
CT Young Worker Safety Curriculum, contact Steve Mooser (nowunion@yahoo.com);
CT Young Worker Health & Safety Team, contact Deborah Pease (deborah.pease@ct.gov).