Take Your Kids to Work Day on April 24 is an exciting opportunity to give your child an inside look into what you do for a living. It’s also a chance for your child to start thinking about what he or she wants to do as an adult.
If you’re considering bringing your child into your workplace, you’ll want to be aware of a few precautions. It’s also worth knowing a bit about how this program got its start.
How it all began
The Ms. Foundation for Women began Take Our Daughters to Work Day in 1992. It had two goals: to increase the presence of women in the workplace and to draw attention to how few women there were in the workplace.
In 2003, the official title was changed to Take Our Daughters and Sons to Work Day to be more inclusive. Many people now shorten it to Take Your Kids to Work Day (TYKTWD).
Things to be aware of
There are a few safety and liability issues business owners and parents need to be aware of when it comes to TYKTWD. Christie Lucas, vice president and product manager, Commercial Lines, at Erie Insurance was happy to answer some questions about both.
What do I need to do in order to bring my child to work? For instance, do I need any forms or waivers?
As long as your company participates in TYKTWD, there normally aren’t any forms or waivers to fill out. An exception would be taking your child into a government building or military base. There are usually more restrictions when it comes to the government and the military, so check in with your superior and/or your human resources department to get the exact details.
Are there any liability concerns business owners and parents should be aware of?
Business owners should protect kids from any hazardous aspects of a job. Children should not be around or operating heavy machinery. If you work in an especially hazardous occupation (for example, you work with dangerous chemicals or fire), it is best to leave your child at home or at school.
Employees should also know to keep confidential information away from youth—this is especially important in the business and medical fields.
How does insurance work with respect to TYKTWD?
TYKTWD is considered part of normal business operations and is covered under a business owner’s general liability coverage. Children who participate should be given the same liability rights any other guest in the workplace would be given. Generally, there is no need to purchase additional coverage.
Do you have any tips for ensuring kids have a fun and safe day?
Take the same precautions you would with any other guest. For example, give children personal protective equipment if walking through a shop floor and make sure they stay in areas that are out of harm’s way. Always ensure they are being supervised.
It’s also a good idea to leave younger kids at home or at school. Though it depends on your child’s maturity level, age 12 is usually a good age to first bring a child into the workplace.
Finally, make sure to check in with your child’s school well ahead of time regarding your plans.
If you have any other questions or concerns regarding liability coverage with regard to TYKTWD, contact your Erie Insurance Agent. He or she knows the ins-and-outs of how your business coverage works.
Read the full story from Erie Insurance: "Safety Tips for Take Your Kids to Work Day"
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