Does the law prohibit the employment of young persons in hazardous work under the age of 18 years?

  • 18 years
  • 17 years
  • 16 years
  • Less than 16
  • No provision
  • Not covered in the Index

This map reflects policies as of 1 January 2024 in 145 countries covered by the Index. The maps are based on the Labour Rights Index 2024, produced by the WageIndicator Foundation and the Centre for Labour Research (WageIndicator Labour Law office).

More Information

  • 1 country sets the minimum age for hazardous work even lower than 16 years.
  • 4 countries permit workers of 16 years in hazardous work.
  • 1 country set the minimum age for employment in hazardous work at 17 years. 
  • 139 countries restrict those under 18 in hazardous work.