Pennsylvania’s Laws to Protect Young Workers
Pennsylvania has specific rules to protect young people in the workplace. These laws govern how old you have to be to work, how many hours you can work, and what kinds of jobs you’re allowed to do if you’re under 18.
It’s extremely important for employers to follow these rules. If they don’t, they could face fines and other penalties. More importantly, following these laws helps keep young workers safe and healthy.
In this article, we’ll break down the key points of Pennsylvania’s labor laws for minors. We’ll cover everything from work permits to restrictions on working hours and dangerous jobs, as well as the consequences for breaking these rules.
Pennsylvania Child Labor Act and Work Permits
In Pennsylvania, the employment of young people is governed by the Pennsylvania Child Labor Act (CLA). Here’s what you need to know about this law and how it affects minors in the workplace.
Pennsylvania’s Child Labor Act
The Pennsylvania Child Labor Law (43 P.S. § 41 et seq.) exists to protect the health, safety, and general well-being of minor employees.
Work Permit Requirements
In Pennsylvania, if you’re aged 14 to 17, you’re generally required to have a work permit from your school district before you can be employed.
The work permit process involves filling out applications and supplying the required documentation. It’s the employer’s responsibility to keep accurate records of all minor employees, including their work permits.
Pennsylvania requires employment certificates for all workers under the age of 18.
Work hour limits for minors
Pennsylvania law restricts the number of hours that minors can work, based on their age and whether school is in session.
Restrictions on hours worked
The main idea behind these laws is that a minor’s job shouldn’t interfere with their school attendance.
Specific hour limits
Pennsylvania has different rules for minors who are 14 or 15 versus those who are 16 or 17.
For 14- and 15-year-olds:
The law limits the number of hours per day and per week that these minors can work when school is in session.
For 16- and 17-year-olds:
The rules are a little different (and less restrictive) for older teens, although they’re still subject to maximum hour limits.
Scheduling rules
The law also says when minors can start and end their workdays.
Night work restrictions
There are rules about working late at night, especially when school is in session. These rules are designed to ensure that minors get enough rest and can focus on their education.
Prohibited Occupations for Minors
To protect young workers, Pennsylvania has rules about the kinds of jobs minors can perform. Some jobs are simply too dangerous for anyone under the age of 18.
General Prohibitions
There are some jobs that are off-limits to all minors, no matter their age, because they’re considered too hazardous.
Age-Specific Restrictions
The restrictions get even more specific based on the minor’s age:
- Minors Under 16: If you’re under 16, there are certain manufacturing and mechanical jobs you’re not allowed to do.
- Minors Under 18: There’s a whole list of jobs that are specifically prohibited for anyone under 18.
Entertainment Industry Exceptions
The rules are a little different if you’re a minor working as an entertainer. There are special permits and regulations that apply to young performers, and there may be some jobs that are off-limits even with a permit.
Pennsylvania Labor Laws for Minors: Breaks and Rest
Pennsylvania employers are required to provide adequate breaks for minors who work for more than five consecutive hours. The specifics of these breaks—how long they need to be and how often they should occur—are detailed in the official Pennsylvania labor laws.
The law also specifies rest periods between shifts. This ensures that minors have enough time off between workdays to rest and recharge.
Finally, Pennsylvania law mandates meal breaks for minors. These breaks give young workers time to eat and take a mental break from their duties.
Penalties for Violating Child Labor Laws
Pennsylvania takes violations of child labor laws seriously. Employers who break these rules may face financial penalties, legal action, and restrictions on their ability to employ minors.
Financial Penalties
- Fines can reach up to $10,000 per violation.
- A first offense typically results in a fine between $200 and $400.
- Subsequent offenses carry steeper fines, ranging from $750 to $1,500.
Legal Consequences
- The state may pursue legal action against employers who violate these laws.
- In especially egregious cases, employers could even face imprisonment.
Employment Restrictions
Employers found to be in violation may also be restricted from hiring minors in the future.
Recordkeeping Requirements for Hiring Minors
If you hire minors, you must keep accurate records. This protects you and your employees.
These records should include:
- Work permits
- Parental consent forms
- Documentation of hours worked
- Other relevant information
You must also post the names and hours of your minor employees where everyone can see them.
Putting It All Together
As you can see, Pennsylvania’s child labor laws are complex, and staying compliant requires your careful attention.
If you’re an employer, it’s worth consulting with an employment law attorney to ensure you understand and follow all applicable regulations. Getting it wrong can be costly, both financially and in terms of your reputation.
You can also find more information directly from the Pennsylvania Department of Labor & Industry, which is an excellent resource for employers who want to do things right.