Student workers in the warehouse: key considerations

Unlike full-time employees, student workers have little or no experience working in a warehouse. In a new environment, they tend to be unaware of the hazards, making it crucial to inform them properly. Proper training helps them integrate into the new environment and protects them from serious workplace accidents. Companies often provide a safety presentation or require an online questionnaire that the student must complete before starting work. This includes information on job-related risks, first aid, evacuation procedures, and more. Preventive measures and protective equipment should be clearly communicated. If completing an online test or safety presentation isn't possible, conduct an on-site instructive conversation.

Sufficient guidance is also essential. This begins with informing permanent staff about the student workers who have been hired. Clear communication allows these employees to reiterate safety rules and keep an extra eye on things. Additionally, you can make the student workers more visible by providing them with appropriate work clothing. This will make them more noticeable and approachable. 

The health and safety manager understands the risks and can determine which tasks are appropriate for student workers and which should be managed by experienced employees. Additionally, there are legal requirements regarding the range of tasks a student worker may perform. Student workers cannot be employed unless they have acquired specific skills, training, or experience. For instance, student workers are not allowed to operate a forklift. However, a student worker may (under strict conditions) use an electric pallet truck to move goods. The student worker's age must be considered in this decision. For example, the student worker must be at least 16 years old to operate a pallet truck with a co-driver. From the age of 18, student workers may also drive a pallet truck, provided they have a co-driver.

Do not expect a student worker to have all the knowledge to do the job well. Even with proper training and guidance, a student worker is still working without any practical experience. While some tasks may seem obvious, this is rarely true for a newcomer. Therefore, act as a mentor and guide the trainee patiently through the warehouse environment. Prevent them from making inefficient or dangerous decisions and redirect them with practical advice and valuable safety tips. You will be teaching them a valuable, lifelong skill: how to stay safe.