What is a Young Person? - Health and safety law defines a young person is anyone under eighteen years of age. A child is defined as anyone who is not over compulsory school age i.e. they has not yet reached the official age at which they may leave school.

As an employer you are required to recognise that young persons, i.e. persons under the age of 18 years, are particularly vulnerable in the workplace. They may lack experience and/or maturity and may not recognise the workplace risks.

Employers are required to conduct a risk assessment and, based on results of the risk assessment, make special arrangements for a young person's well being.

A child is defined as under statutory school leaving age and their parents must be notified of the risk assessment and arrangements made. Additional legal requirements apply when employing children, you should always check with your local authority prior to employing children below minimum school leaving age.