(NAPSA)—The construction industry continues to provide a growing numberof job opportunities. Especially in the summer months, we see more teen workers employed in this field. Summer job opportunities in construction may be thefirst job experience for some young people. The best way to make sure it is a rewarding experience is to be sure it’s a safe and healthy one. Under the Leadership of Secretary Elaine L. Chao, the U.S. Department of Labor (DOL) developed the YouthRules! campaign to promote positive, safe experiences for teen workers. YouthRules! provides valuable information online so that every employer, teen and parent has the ability to access information on youth employment rules. Becauseof the special needs and regulations of the construction industry, DOL is launching a new phase of the YouthRules! program dealing with youth working in construction. Youth Working in Construction The new YouthRules! Youth Working in Construction resource will provide valuable and easy to understand information so that: * employers can ensure that they are in compliance with the law and most importantly maintain a safe workplace; * and young workers also can understand the protections that apply to them. This is important because, in December 2004, the Department : aD) For information on youth employment laws, the new regulations and Youth Working in Construction, please visit our Web site, www.youthrules.dol.gov, or call toll free at 1-866-4US-WAGE. published new regulations to expand protections for young workers. These regulations madesignificant changes affecting the construction industry. The interactive presentation the Department created details the Fair Labor Standards Act’s youth employment regulations and includes: * video clips depicting real life examplesof violations; * prohibited items and activities are clearly explained. While this year there is a greater emphasis on the changes in construction protections, the department remains committed to ensuring that young workers are legally employed, especially in industries such as restaurants and retail, which hire the greatest number of youth.
