Listen Live
Listen Live

B.C.’s new general working-age now in effect

The B.C. government has updated what youth under the age of 16 are allowed to do for work.

The general working age has risen from 12 to 16, but children aged 14 and 15 can still work in “appropriate” jobs.

Some examples of appropriate jobs include cashier, golf caddy, server and lifeguard.

B.C. government officials said the new rules will not exclude children under 14 from babysitting or delivering newspapers part-time.

Children 12 or older can also continue working in businesses or farms that are owned by an immediate family member, as long as the work meets the safety criteria.

Jobs that are generally considered unsafe for youth under 16 now include repairing, maintaining or operating heavy machinery and construction sites.

The full list of jobs that are considered safe or unsafe can be found below.

MORE: Safe and Unsafe Jobs for Youth Under 16 (B.C. Government)

According to provincial officials, 1,700 youth, parents and employers were consulted before the list was finalized.

The new rules bring British Columbia in line with international standards after previously being the only province in Canada with a minimum working age as young as 12.

Josiah Spyker
Josiah Spyker
Josiah is an integral part of our East Kootenay team. Since joining Vista Radio in 2021, he has combined his love of community and sport in his reporting for the news team, while also stepping in as an on-air announcer.

Continue Reading

chnv Now playing play

ckkc Now playing play

- Advertisement -

Related Articles

- Advertisement -

Latest News

First Nations leaders condemn ‘alarmist’ comments on Cowichan title ruling

The First Nations Leadership Council said it’s “deeply disturbed and angered” by what it calls alarmist comments by B.C. Conservative leader John Rustad about Aboriginal title rights.

MLA Anderson calls Selkirk campus closure “devastating” to community

Kootenay‑Central MLA Brittny Anderson is calling the closure of Selkirk College’s Victoria Street campus a blow not only to the local arts scene but to the broader community. 

B.C. proposes expanded job protections for workers with serious illness or injury

British Columbia's government has tabled legislation aimed at improving job protections for workers with serious illness or injury.

B.C. Conservative MLA Amelia Boultbee resigns, urges Rustad to step down

Penticton-Summerland MLA Amelia Boultbee said she’s leaving the B.C. Conservative caucus and called on party leader John Rustad to resign. 

B.C. government proposes more legislation to fast-track North Coast power project, with First Nations

The British Columbia government tabled legislation Monday aimed at fast-tracking the construction of the North Coast Transmission Line (NCTL) and enable First Nation’s co-ownership of the project. 
- Advertisement -