B.C. age limit for ‘hazardous’ jobs starts in January
Posted December 30, 2022 10:23 pm.
Last Updated December 30, 2022 10:26 pm.
A new regulation in B.C. is setting an age limit on some “hazardous” jobs across the province.
Set to come into effect on Sunday, employees for certain jobs must be at least 18 years old, and 16 years old for other risky jobs.
First announced in October, the new rule applies to jobs in construction, forestry, food processing, and oil and gas industries.
A news release by the Ministry of Labour says some jobs are too dangerous for young workers.
“The new rules outline certain jobs that require a minimum age of 18, such as work as a logger, jobs in smelters, in oil drilling or where there is a risk of exposure to certain harmful materials. For construction work, fish processing and some animal processing work, a minimum age of 16 is deemed appropriate,” it said.
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Employees must be at least 18 years old to work in areas including tree falling and logging, using a chainsaw, working in a confined space, and work that requires using a respirator.
Others must be at least 16 years old to work in jobs including construction, forest firefighting, and jobs that involve working from heights that require fall protection.
This comes after the ministry says it reviewed injury data within several industries, along with consultation from the public and stakeholders.
“Between 2012 and 2021, WorkSafeBC data revealed more than $26.4 million was paid out in job-related disability claims for workers who were aged 16 to 18 at the time of their injury,” it explained.
But for young locals looking to get training and experience, the ministry says there are still opportunities.
“To ensure youth can still access important apprenticeship and training opportunities, the age restrictions do not apply to industry training programs overseen by SkilledTradesBC,” it added.
“As well, current employees who reach the prescribed age by April 1, 2023, are excluded from the age requirements.”
