Several types of power-driven equipment are also generally prohibited for workers under 18. Examples are saws and other machines used on wood or metal; meat processing or packing equipment, including slicing machines; paper-product machines, including balers and compactors; bakery machines such as mixers; and most hoisting equipment.

With a few exceptions, youths under 16 may not work in communications, public utilities, construction, warehousing or transportation. They also are not permitted to operate most types of power-driven equipment. Under revised regulations, baking and cooking over an open flame are prohibited; deep-frying and cleaning cooking equipment are only allowed under specific conditions.

Know rules If your company employs teens, make sure you are familiar with applicable labor laws. G.Neil can help with our handy reference guide, “Wage & Hour Law Understood.” It contains an updated section on new child labor regulations, as well as information and practical advice regarding a host of other wage and hour issues — all in clear, easy-to-understand language.

*With some of these hazardous activities and equipment, limited exemptions may be allowed for apprentices and student-learners who are at least 16 and enrolled in approved programs.

May 2005

HCS established uniform requirements to ensure that all chemicals in U.S. workplaces are evaluated and that information is transmitted to employees. Chemical importers and manufacturers must create a material safety data sheet (MSDS) on every chemical they introduce to marketplace. All employers must have a hazard communication program in place to educate employees on how to find and use MSDSs.

The key to a successful program is specificity and follow-through, says Linda Sterling, a human resources manager at Johnson Hosiery Mills in Fort Payne, Alabama. Johnson Hosiery maintains eight MSDS binders, prominently located throughout its plant. The company’s HazMat training program focuses on specific bleaches, dyes, and lubricants actually in facility. Every employee is retrained on HazMat safety every year. And HazMat program is supported throughout year. "The main things we focus on are maintenance and good housekeeping," says Sterling.

G.Neil offers many safety products designed to bring your HazMat program into compliance. For example, our Right to Know Bundle includes prominent MSDS binder displays, binder itself, and a poster. And our Hazard Communication CD-ROM Training Kit provides an ideal way to conduct employee training sessions.

E-newsletter—May 2005—www.gneil.com