The Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA) guides the use of minors on construction job sites. Federal and state laws can differ, and it's crucial to consistently follow the rules that offer the maximum protection for minors. You can check state labor laws using this link: https://www.dol.gov/agencies/whd/youthrules. This information is based on the federal parameters for hiring minors in construction companies.
The Wage and Hour Division (WHD) emphasizes that it is illegal to employ minors in prohibited hazardous occupations. Examples include operating motor vehicles, forklifts, Bobcats, loaders, power-driven saws, guillotine shears, and power-driven woodworking machines. Minors are also barred from working in excavation, backfilling trenches, or on roofs.
When a company identifies a job suitable for minors, age must be taken into consideration. Minors aged 14–15 can work in sales and office roles for a construction company but cannot be employed on the construction site. They also have restrictions on work hours and times per day and week. Additionally, there is a list of prohibited activities for this age group, such as loading or unloading vehicles, warehousing, and working in boiler rooms.
Teens aged 16–17 may work on a construction site within specific parameters. Ensure you are familiar with these guidelines before they begin working on the jobsite.
