Young Workers – Restaurant Safety
Overview
The United States has more of its youth in the workforce than any other developed country in the world. Young workers suffer a disproportionate share of injuries and fatalities, especially in the first year on the job. In 2017, 22 youths under 18 died from work-related injuries and another 27,070 were sickened or injured. The service industry ranks highest among US industries for injury in workers ages 16-19.
Standards
Restaurant safety for young workers is addressed in specific OSHA standards for general industry.
Hazard Recognition
Provides references that aid in recognizing the hazards that are present for young workers in restaurants.

Youth Worker Restaurant Safety.
OSHA eTool. Describes common hazards and potential safety solutions for young workers and employers in the restaurant industry. Offers an online safety quiz and downloadable safety posters.
- Preventing Cuts and Amputations from Food Slicers and Meat Grinders. OSHA Fact Sheet 3794, (May 2015).
- Hospital. OSHA eTool. Identifies hazards and controls in the hospital industry and healthcare industry.
- Dietary. Includes examples of hazards in kitchen areas.