Each year, 70,000 teens are injured so seriously on the job that they have to go to the hospital. About 70 teens each year are even killed at their workplace.

Here are some things to remember:

• Make sure he gets training. Your teen should ask, “What are the risks from doing this job?” Once he is taught how to do the job safely, he needs to do it the right way every time. He may need to wear special clothing or safety equipment. Make sure he does—even if he thinks it makes him look like a geek.

• Know the law. Teens under 18 are not allowed to operate some equipment, such as slicers and circular saws. They are also not allowed to work in dangerous places—for example, on roofs. Check with the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention for more information (www.cdc.

gov/niosh/homepage.html).

• Help him think ahead. If he sees a potential danger spot, he should report it to his boss. Remember, “Better safe than sorry” is really true on the job.

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