Keeping Kids Safe At Their After School Job

The U.S. Labor Department this week is reaching out this week to Michigan High Schools and Junior Highs, making sure they're up to date on work rules aimed at keeping teens safe at work and productive at school.

Federal provisions restrict the number of hours individuals under 16 years of age are allowed to work and the times during which they can be employed. Minors may not work more than three hours on school days, eight hours on nonschool days, 18 hours in school weeks or 40 hours during nonschool weeks. The regulations detail that 14- and 15-year-olds may work during nonschool hours but no later than 7 p.m., or 9 p.m. from June 1 until Labor Day.

YouthRules! is a public awareness campaign designed to bring teens, parents, educators and employers together to promote safe and rewarding work experiences for young workers. The campaign involves partnerships with state and federal government agencies, employer groups, trade associations and advocacy groups.

For more information on youth employment laws, visit the Labor Department's YouthRules! website or call the Wage and Hour Division's toll-free helpline at 866-4US-WAGE (487-9243.