An apprenticeship done correctly is an unbelievably rewarding pathway that allows people to earn and learn at the same time, leaving people with a qualification and skillset for life. However, too many apprentices are being exploited due to their age and lack of experience.

A story has developed this week, showcasing yet another example of an apprentice being treated without compassion or dignity. It is a stain on Australia’s reputation and underscores the importance of being educated about your workplace rights and holding those who abuse these rights to account.

An apprentice plumber and his boss had finished up an installation and were about to leave to go back to Mansfield. However, plans changed when it was decided that the client would too accompany the workers. Being only 2 seats in the Ute, it was decided that the apprentice would be required to cram into the back of a toolbox attached to the tray of the Ute.

The 19-year-old apprentice had to bear a 25+ minute drive whilst enduring scorching conditions inside a metal toolbox surrounded by dangerous tools that could cause fatal injury if they were to collide violently with the young worker. Upon arriving back in Mansfield, the apprentice was met with laughter from the client and director as they joked about the incident over a beer. The apprentice climbed out of the toolbox in visible discomfort with a bright red-face, reported the apprentice’s brother, witnessing the aftermath in shock.

The apprentice plumber spoke up about the incident and sought support from his Apprentice Support Officer (ASO). The director was taken to Mansfield Magistrates Court and pleaded guilty to a single charge of failing to ensure that a workplace was safe and without risks to health. The Director was fined without conviction $20,000 as well as made to pay an additional $4,249.

This behavior not only causes significant risk of physical injury, it also perpetuates a narrative that undermines young workers self-worth and dignity. It is vitally important that employers are reminded of their legal obligations, as there are many laws that dictate how an employer must provide a safe working environment free from bullying, discrimination and harassment.

First-hand I know how hard It can be to speak up when you are just starting out as a young tradesperson, looking back it took years to realise just how inexcusable certain treatment was. If I could have my time again, I would have spoken out more, and I urge you to do the same if you ever feel as if you are having your rights exploited.

Employers must:

• Provide a safe workplace
• Train staff to work safely
• Fix safety issues and provide alternative safe work

It is a worker’s right to:

• Engage in work free from bullying and harassment 
• To refuse unsafe work
• To report safety issues without fear

Bottom line is everyone deserves respect, dignity and safety a work, apprentices are particularly vulnerable to having these rights abused. In fact, young workers (15- 25yo) have a 75% greater chance of being injured at work (SafeWork NSW) and are much less likely to stand up for themselves in circumstances of unfair treatment.

What can an apprentice do if they feel like they are being taken advantage of at work?

• Join your Union 
• Write down and record all incidents in detail 
• Check if you have a Health and Safety representative (HSR)
• Contact your HSR/ WorkSafe/ Young Workers Centre 
• Reach out to your TAFE or family and friends for support 
• Speak with other apprentices or co-workers in the workplace about safety issues regularly 
• Contact your Apprentice Support Officer (ASO)
• Refuse unsafe work 

Regardless of a person’s age, skillset, salary, status and all other factors, everyone has the legal and ethical right to return home after work healthy, not only physically but also mentally. If you feel as if this does not describe your working situation, there may be something seriously wrong, contact Young Workers Centre for free confidential legal support and advice.

For more information about your safety rights at work as an apprentice head to: https://www.apprenticevoice.com.au/tags/safety