The employment of minors is a topic that generates debate with both positive and negative views on the issue. On the one han, work can give young people valuable experience help them learn new skills and earn some money. On the other hand there is a potential risk to their health safety and education. Children are our future and at this time in their lives nothing is more important than their protection and development. That is why the European Union invests a huge amount of time and effort in rules and regulations.

Can minors be employed in EU countries?

In the European Union the employment of minors is subject to strict rules and regulations. In general people under the age of 15 cannot be employed except in cultural, artistic, sporting or advertising activities and that´s only if they have been approved in advance by the competent authority. Children aged 14 to 15 can do light work or be part of a work/training or work experience programme. In addition all employers across the EU are obliged to protect the health and safety of young people and to inform them about the risks involved in their work.

What kind of work are minors not allowed to do in the EU?

To ensure the health and safety of young people there are types of work they must not do. They belong here:

  • work that is beyond their physical or mental capabilities,
  • work during which they would be exposed to harmful substances such as chemicals or radiation,
  • work with a high risk of accidents or health hazards due to extreme conditions such as cold, heat, noise or vibration,
  • working with risk factors such as explosives or high voltage hazards in the power grid.

Some EU countries allow employers to employ young workers if it is part of their vocational training. However they must ensure that the work is supervised by a competent person. Employers must also inform minors about the possible risks of work and take all necessary precautions. If the workers are under 15 years of age their legal representative must also be informed.

Employers are also obliged to guarantee minors adequate breaks and rest periods. For example teenagers working more than 4.5 hours must take a break of at least 30 minutes. They are also entitled to a minimum of 14 consecutive hours of rest for every 24 hours. There are also specific rules on maximum working hours and night work depending on age and type of work.

What is the EU doing to ensure that work does not negatively affect the studies of minors?

The EU has taken measures to ensure that employment of children under 15 does not have a negative impact on their studies. Employers must follow strict rules depending on the type of work or educational program the child is doing. These rules allow a maximum of 2 hours of work per school day and 12 hours per week for work carried out outside fixed school hours (where national legislation allows) and 7 hours per day and 35 hours per week for light work carried out by children who are no longer subject to compulsory full-time school attendance under national legislation.

In addition the EU bans children under 15 from working between 10pm and 6am. or between 23.00 and 7.00 Employers must guarantee a minimum rest period of 12 consecutive hours for every 24 hours and a minimum of 2 days for every 7 days. National exemptions may apply in some sectors but these regulations help protect the health and education of underage workers.

What about children aged 15 to 18?

Teenagers who are no longer subject to compulsory full-time education under national law can work up to 8 hours a day and 40 hours a week. They are also not allowed to work between 10 p.m. and 6 a.m. or between 23.00 and 7.00 except in exceptional circumstances related to the nature of the work. There are some national exceptions to these rules particularly in sectors such as shipping or fishing, the armed forces or police, hospitals, agriculture, tourism and the hotel, restaurant and cafe sectors. If the teenager’s work is spread over the whole day exceptions to the minimum rest period may apply.

In conclusion although there are both positive and negative aspects to the employment of minors it is imperative that strict legal guidelines and regulations are followed to ensure that their health safety and education are protected. Employers must guarantee adequate breaks and rest periods and inform young workers about the risks associated with work. In this way employers can provide young people with valuable work experience and opportunities while ensuring their well-being and satisfaction. How is it in the USA? Find out at here.