Keeping Apprentices Safe
National Apprenticeship Week (9-15 February) is the perfect moment for employers to reflect on how they support the next generation of talent entering the workplace. Apprentices bring energy, curiosity, and fresh perspectives, but they also need the right structures around them to stay safe, build confidence, and succeed.
And while many people still associate apprenticeships with school-leavers, today’s apprenticeship landscape is far more diverse. Apprentices can be any age, from 16 to 60+, and employers have a responsibility to ensure that every apprentice young or experienced receives the same high standard of health and safety support.
This blog focuses on the additional considerations required when onboarding younger or less experienced workers, while recognising that good practice benefits all apprentices.
Why Apprentices May Face Higher Risks
Apprentices, particularly those new to the world of work, may be more vulnerable to harm because they often:
- Have limited experience in real-world work environments
- May not fully recognise hazards or understand the consequences of unsafe behaviour
- Can feel nervous about speaking up or asking questions
- Are still developing physical, cognitive, and emotional maturity (for younger apprentices)
- May be eager to impress, leading to risk-taking or reluctance to admit uncertainty
These factors make a strong, structured approach to health and safety essential.
Building a Safe Start some Key Steps for Employers
1. Carry Out a Thorough, Apprentice-Focused Risk Assessment
A standard workplace risk assessment isn’t enough. Employers should consider:
- The apprentice’s age, experience, and confidence
- Tasks that may require additional supervision
- Whether equipment, machinery, or chemicals are suitable for younger workers
- Any legal restrictions on what under-18s can do
This ensures controls are tailored, realistic, and protective.
2. Provide a Clear, Supportive Induction
A good induction sets the tone for everything that follows. Include:
- A tour of the workplace
- Emergency procedures
- Safe systems of work
- PPE requirements
- How to report concerns or near misses
- Who their supervisor or mentor is
Keep the language simple, avoid jargon, and check understanding regularly.
3. Assign a Competent Supervisor or Mentor
Apprentices need someone approachable, patient, and knowledgeable. A good mentor:
- Demonstrates safe behaviour
- Encourages questions
- Provides constructive feedback
- Helps build confidence
- Monitors progress and wellbeing
This relationship is one of the strongest predictors of a safe and successful apprenticeship.
4. Prioritise Training and Competency Development
Training should be:
- Practical
- Hands-on
- Broken into manageable steps
- Reinforced through regular refreshers
Younger workers often learn best by doing, not by reading lengthy manuals. Here at ST Safety Services Ltd we can complement your training programmes with our easy to engage with E-learning courses. To find out more Click Here.
5. Encourage a Culture Where It’s Safe to Speak Up
Apprentices must feel comfortable saying:
“I don’t understand”, “I need help” or “I don’t feel safe doing this”
Leaders and supervisors should model openness, praise good questions, and never dismiss concerns.
6. Monitor Workload, Fatigue, and Wellbeing
Apprentices may be balancing work with study, travel, or personal pressures. Employers should:
- Check in regularly
- Watch for signs of fatigue or stress
- Adjust tasks if needed
- Promote breaks and good time management
A healthy apprentice is a safer apprentice.
7. Review and Adapt as They Grow
As apprentices gain skills and confidence, their responsibilities can increase, but only when they are ready. Regular reviews ensure progression is safe, structured, and supported.
Remember: Not All Apprentices Are Young
While this guidance focuses on younger or less experienced workers, the principles apply to all apprentices. Older apprentices may bring life experience, but they may still be new to the industry, unfamiliar with equipment, or unsure about workplace expectations.
A consistent, inclusive approach ensures every apprentice regardless of age, feels valued, supported, and safe.
Investing in the safety and wellbeing of apprentices isn’t just a legal requirement, it’s a commitment to building a skilled and confident workforce. When employers create an environment where apprentices feel protected and empowered, everyone benefits productivity rises, culture improves, and future talent flourishes.
If you’re welcoming apprentices into your organisation and want to strengthen your approach to health and safety, we’re here to help. Reach out to our team for practical guidance, tailored support, and the confidence that your apprentices of any age are starting their journey safely and well.