CAREERS: The Next Generation Foundation operates the SafeGen program, which teaches youth workplace health and training. CAREERS is an industry-led non-profit foundation that brings together industry, schools, government and communities to guide youth into successful career paths.
Alberta’s government has provided the SafeGen program with a $175,000 grant to continue providing students with foundational health and safety knowledge required by industry and by schools overseeing students’ off-campus education.
“Historically, young workers have experienced higher rates of occupational injury and illness than other workers. It’s important that Alberta’s young people get valuable work experience and that they are working in healthy and safe environments. The SafeGen program helps students acquire skills and experience with a solid foundation of workplace health and safety knowledge.”
SafeGen’s courses are available at no cost to schools throughout Alberta and can be taken in class or online. The courses help mitigate the risk for work-related fatalities, injuries and illnesses which make youth work placements more appealing to employers and schools.
Last year, almost 8,200 students completed more than 11,000 SafeGen courses, giving them a strong foundation for safe work habits and a better understanding of a safe work environment.
“Safety is the very first lesson that every student should learn. Through this $175,000 grant to the SafeGen program, our government is helping to ensure that our young people have a positive and valuable experience in their off-campus education, and can make a safe and healthy first step on a future of amazing opportunities in Alberta.”
“At CAREERS, we envision a generation of young workers who are not only skilled but also equipped with a comprehensive understanding of workplace safety principles. This grant enables us to further our mission of guiding youth into successful career paths while prioritizing their well-being. With Government of Alberta support for the SafeGen program, CAREERS can further support its teacher partners across Alberta by providing them with a free and user-friendly resource to prepare students for a safe start to their careers. Together with the support of Alberta Jobs, Economy and Trade, we are shaping a brighter and safer future for Alberta's workforce.”
Alberta’s government is committed to helping ensure Albertans work in safe, fair and healthy workplaces. Budget 2024 invests $68 million for education and enforcement of occupational health and safety (OHS) and employment standards laws. This includes funding for the OHS prevention initiative, which focuses on reducing common workplace injuries, identifying higher-risk work situations and protecting at-risk workers, such as young workers.
Quick facts
- In 2022 (the most recent year with available statistics), workers aged 15 to 24 had the highest injury rates among age groups in Alberta.
- The SafeGen program provides three accredited high school courses related to workplace safety systems, workplace safety practices and agricultural safety.
- SafeGen also offers a non-accredited online course for mental health in the workplace.
- In 2023, SafeGen recorded 11,137 successful course completions by 8,180 students.