What are the restrictions on working hours for minors?
In Massachusetts, the law requires that minors aged 14-17 can only work during certain times and for specific amounts of time depending on their age and the type of work they are doing. It is important for employers to understand the restrictions for minors to ensure they are in compliance with the law. MInors aged 16-17 are restricted to working no more than 8 hours per day and 40 hours per week with a maximum of 6 consecutive days per week. They must also have a minimum of 8 hours between the end of one shift and the start of the next. Minors aged 14-15 are more limited in their working hours. They can only work between 7am and 7pm and for no more than 3 hours per day and 18 hours per week. They also must have at least 14 hours between the end of one shift and the start of the next. Minors are also forbidden from doing hazardous or particularly dangerous activities such as working with explosives or operating dangerous machinery, regardless of age. On some occasions, minors may be allowed to work outside of the restrictions, but only with the permission of the Massachusetts Department of Labor Standards or other pertinent government authority. In general, minors need to be provided with appropriate breaks and rest periods as required by the Fair Labor Standards Act and the Massachusetts Department of Labor Standards. Employers should familiarize themselves with the different laws related to minors to ensure they are in compliance.
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