Contractors fined over $5K in penalties after teens found working near explosives

A company will now have to pay more than $5,000 after the U.S. Department of Labor found that three teens were working in unsafe conditions.

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Investigators found that Controlled Blasting, a blasting, demolition and construction contractor in Winder, allowed three 16-and 17-year-olds to work in an area where dynamite was kept and transported, according to a news release.

The employer also had the workers drill and cover holes where explosives were placed for demolition exercises in and around the Lawrenceville area.

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The dangerous conditions are forbidden under the federal child labor law.

“Employers struggling to fill open positions have increased the numbers of teens in jobs not traditionally occupied by young workers. Businesses who employ minor-aged workers must educate themselves on keeping these workers safe, especially those around hazardous conditions,” said Wage and Hour Division District Director Steven Salazar.

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The company will have to pay $5,592 in penalties for the child labor violations.

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