Keeping Apprentices Safe at Work: How Employers Can Support Young Workers

How employers can ensure apprentices feel welcome on their first day

Starting a new job is always a big step - especially for apprentices and young workers entering high-risk industries like construction, engineering, and manufacturing. A structured, safety-first approach to onboarding is essential - not just to help them settle in but to ensure they understand workplace risks, know the safety procedures, and feel supported from day one.

For employers, this isn’t just about doing the right thing - it’s a legal and moral responsibility. Young and inexperienced workers are more likely to be involved in workplace accidents, making it vital that businesses provide clear safety communication, proper training, and strong leadership to protect their wellbeing.

Here’s how employers can create a safe, welcoming, and productive environment for apprentices - while reinforcing a positive safety culture across the workforce.

Understanding the Risks: Why Apprentices Need Extra Support

Research shows that young workers are at higher risk of workplace injuries. This is often due to:

Inexperience – New starters may be unfamiliar with workplace hazards.
Lack of confidence – Apprentices might hesitate to ask questions or challenge unsafe practices.
Workplace pressures – They may feel compelled to ‘prove themselves’ by taking risks or cutting corners.
Unclear safety communication – If safety policies aren’t visible, accessible, and reinforced, young workers may not follow them properly.

Employers have a duty under the Health and Safety at Work Act 1974 to assess workplace risks and provide clear safety guidance - especially for young workers who may not have prior industry experience.

6 Ways to Keep Apprentices Safe and Supported

1. Create a Strong First Impression with Clear Safety Signage

First impressions matter. From the moment an apprentice steps onto a site or factory floor, they should see clear, well-positioned safety signs that outline the key risks, PPE requirements, and emergency procedures.

Investing in custom health & safety boards and site-specific signage makes safety expectations immediately visible, reinforcing a serious approach to worker wellbeing.

At SafetyBuyer, we offer:

Custom safety boards displaying PPE rules, emergency contacts, and site hazards
Entrance safety signs to set the right tone from the start
First aid points and fire safety boards for clear emergency guidance

By placing these in high-traffic areas, employers can ensure apprentices always know where to find essential safety information.

2. Provide a Structured Induction with a Focus on Health & Safety

A well-planned induction helps new starters feel confident and informed. This should cover:

A site tour, highlighting restricted areas, high-risk zones, and safety stations
Fire safety procedures and evacuation routes
PPE requirements, including when and where it should be worn
An introduction to health & safety personnel and how to report hazards

Breaking this information into manageable sessions across the first week ensures apprentices absorb safety messages properly, rather than being overwhelmed on day one.

3. Assign a Safety Mentor or Buddy

Pairing apprentices with a trusted, experienced colleague is a great way to reinforce safe working habits. A buddy system helps:

Build confidence – New starters have a go-to person for questions and guidance.
Encourage safe behaviour – Apprentices learn from someone who models best practices.
Promote inclusion – A mentor helps young workers feel part of the team.

Choosing the right mentor is key - this should be someone who prioritises safety and is patient enough to support a new worker’s learning curve.

4. Set a Zero-Tolerance Approach to Unsafe Practices

Outdated workplace ‘pranks’ or pressure to ‘prove toughness’ can create a dangerous environment - especially for apprentices. Employers must:

Set a clear stance that safety always comes first
Educate all staff on the risks of pressuring young workers into unsafe practices
Encourage an open-door policy so apprentices feel comfortable reporting concerns

A positive safety culture starts with leadership. Senior staff should lead by example, demonstrating that following safety rules is a core part of the job, not an optional extra.

5. Use Visual Safety Boards to Reinforce Training

Regular training is essential - but one-off safety talks aren’t enough. Visual reinforcement through custom safety boards and reminder signage helps embed key messages into daily routines.

Creating a Safety-First Environment for Young Workers

Apprentices are the future of your workforce - and investing in their safety, confidence, and wellbeing ensures long-term success for both them and your business.

At SafetyBuyer, we help companies enhance workplace safety with: