Contractors advised how to screen teenage employees

They should be able to understand percentages and ratios, communicate clearly and make themselves properly understood.

They should also be punctual, well-mannered and appropriately dressed at all times.

This and other advice comes from a new guide on employing minors produced by Build UK on behalf of the Strategic Forum for Construction and the Construction Leadership Council.

According to the Strategic Forum, contractors do not employ more under 18s because of perceived difficulties with safety regulations and insurance. In fact, say these industry leaders, there is nothing to worry about so long as a few steps are followed.

The Strategic Forum Guidance for Employing Young People provides information on how under 18s should be introduced to the industry and managed once employed, as well as a sample risk assessment for employers.

In a statement, the Strategic Forum said it was “smashing the barriers that block young people from entering the industry”.

Build UK chief executive Suzannah Nichol said: “In the race for talent our industry faces significant recruitment challenges over the next decade. There is a generation that is ready to meet our needs, yet we may miss them if we make it difficult for them to get a taste of our sector through a first job or work experience. We hope that this guidance will give employers the confidence to give young people, under the age of 18, an opportunity to see the broad range of careers construction offers”.

The guidance can be downloaded from the Strategic Forum's website.

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