Saskatchewan Proclaims Youth Safety Education Day to Strengthen Workplace Readiness

Highlights

• Saskatchewan has proclaimed Sept. 10, 2026, as Youth Safety Education Day.

• The initiative focuses on workplace health and safety education for young people up to age 25 and those supporting their employment.

• Workers aged 14 and 15 must complete the Young Worker Readiness Certificate Course before starting employment.

• The course covers workplace hazards, safety requirements, employment rights and responsibilities.

• Employers must receive the required training certificate, proof of age and written parental or guardian consent before these young workers begin work.

Workplace Safety Education Targets Young Workers

Preparing young workers to identify hazards and understand workplace safety requirements is an important part of workforce development, particularly in construction and other industries involving physical and operational risks.

The Government of Saskatchewan has designated Sept. 10, 2026, as Youth Safety Education Day to promote workplace safety awareness, education and leadership among people up to age 25.

The initiative also involves individuals and organizations responsible for supporting young workers as they enter employment. Its focus includes helping new employees understand their workplace rights, recognize potential hazards and report unsafe conditions.

Labour Relations and Workplace Safety Minister Ken Cheveldayoff highlighted the importance of equipping young employees with the knowledge and confidence needed to protect themselves at work.

Gord Dobrowolsky, chairperson of the Saskatchewan Workers' Compensation Board (WCB), also emphasized the importance of ensuring young employees understand their rights and feel comfortable raising safety concerns.

Readiness Course Establishes Employment Requirements

Saskatchewan requires workers aged 14 and 15 to complete the Young Worker Readiness Certificate Course before beginning employment.

The training introduces young employees to workplace health and safety standards, relevant legislation, employment rights and responsibilities, and available resources for assistance.

Before these workers can start their jobs, employers must receive three documents:

• A copy of the completed Young Worker Readiness Certificate Course certificate.

• Proof of the worker's age.

• Written consent from a parent or guardian.

These requirements establish a baseline for workplace safety awareness before younger employees enter the workforce.

Implications for Construction Workforce Safety

The designation highlights the importance of early safety education as Saskatchewan continues developing its workforce.

For construction employers and contractors, young-worker preparation is particularly relevant to onboarding, hazard awareness and workplace supervision. Ensuring employees understand safety procedures and reporting responsibilities can help establish stronger workplace safety practices.

The initiative also reinforces the role of employers, industry organizations and safety institutions in preparing younger workers for employment across Saskatchewan's construction and industrial sectors.

Source: Sask Heavy.