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

B.C. adds 5k jobs in June, led by gains in part-time work

British Columbia added 5,000 jobs in June but saw a dip in full-time employment, according to the latest jobs report from Statistics Canada. 

B.C. maintains decision to end drug coverage for girl with rare, fatal disease

B.C. is standing by the decision not to continue drug coverage for a Vancouver Island girl with a rare, fatal disease. 

Measles cases reported in B.C. this year top 100

B.C.’s health officials have said 102 cases of measles have been reported across B.C. so far this year, with most of those in the Northern Health region.

Puck drop date set for KIJHL season

The puck will drop on the 2025-26 KIJHL regular season on Friday, September 19, when the league’s 21 teams each embark on a 44-game schedule.

Council votes to bring Baker Street market back downtown

Following months of community debate and vendor frustration, Nelson’s Wednesday farmers market will return to it’s longtime home on Baker Street next week (July 16). 
- Advertisement -