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The working conditions of minors in France, particularly in terms of age, laws, and restrictions, create complex and essential issues for the protection of young workers. This article takes an in-depth look at the various regulations governing the employment of minors, the consequences of these laws, and the administrative procedures required to ensure a safe and positive working environment.
The different legal working ages in France
In France, the legal minimum working age is structured around precise standards established for the protection and integration of young people in the business worldWithin this framework, laws are structured around various age groups, each with specific limits regarding permitted activities.
Under 14s
In general, work is prohibited before the age of 14. However, exceptions exist. Minors may participate in cultural, artistic, sporting, or advertising activities, provided they obtain a parental consent accompanied by administrative validation. These exemptions are strictly controlled to prevent children from being exposed to situations that are potentially dangerous or harmful to their education.
From 14 to 16 years old
For young people aged 14 to 16, the law only allows work during school holidays, which must be at least 14 consecutive days. Jobs must remain "light" and not compromise their health or safety. It is also imperative to obtain a parental consent as well as a prior declaration to the Labor Inspectorate. This regulatory framework was put in place to maintain a fair balance between academic and professional obligations.
From age 16
From the age of 16, young people can more easily enter the labor market, although the law still imposes limitations on working hours and types of activities. Young workers cannot exceed 35 hours per week and must comply with certain restrictions on high-risk positions. This step therefore marks a transition towards greater professional autonomy, while continuing to benefit from adequate legal protection.
| Age | Working conditions | Authorization required |
|---|---|---|
| Under 14s | Prohibited with exceptions (culture, art, sport) | Yes |
| 14 to 16 years | Restrictions: light work during the vacations | Yes (parental + declaration) |
| From age 16 | Wider access but with limits | Sometimes necessary |
Conditions for working as a miner
When hiring minors, the regulatory framework imposes precise administrative formalities. From the age of 14 onwards, a certain set of rules applies to ensure that work does not harm the child. development of the individual.
Administrative conditions and authorizations
For young people aged 14 to 16, it is essential to obtain a parental consent and to file a hiring declaration with the Labor Inspectorate. These steps are of vital importance to ensure that the proposed job complies with health and safety standards. From the age of 16, authorizations may still be required, particularly for certain occupations that may involve risks.
Restrictions and regulations
Legislation imposes strict restrictions not only on working hours, but also on the nature of the tasks performed. Between the ages of 14 and 16, minors may only work 35 hours per week, with a maximum of 7 hours per day. Hazardous or harmful work, such as work involving chemicals, is strictly prohibited. This ensures increased protection for young workers so they can gain positive and rewarding experience.
| Age | Maximum working time | Prohibited work |
|---|---|---|
| 14 to 16 years | 35 hours/week, 7 hours/day | Dangerous, harmful work |
| From age 16 | 35 hours/week, 8 hours/day | Risky work according to the terms |
Types of work accessible to young people
To ensure a rewarding professional experience for minors, it's important to consider the various hiring sectors. Some sectors are more suitable and are committed to offering positions suited to the abilities of young workers.
Sectors recruiting minors
Young people can be offered jobs in various fields such as :
- The animation (summer camps, sports classes).
- Agriculture (harvesting, grape-picking).
- The trade (selling in stores, cashiers).
- Fast food (table service, kitchen help).
- Childcare (baby-sitting).
However, it's crucial to note that certain sectors, such as serving in drinking establishments, are strictly forbidden to young people under 16.
Employment contract and remuneration
Most young workers sign fixed-term contracts (CDD) tailored to their situation, such as summer jobs or internships. Their salaries are regulated by the SMIC gross hourly rate, with respective deductions of 20 % before the age of 17 and 10 % between the ages of 17 and 18. If they have 6 months of prior experience, this deduction is removed, thus guaranteeing fair remuneration. Furthermore, it should be noted that income generated by summer work is tax-exempt as long as it does not exceed three times the monthly minimum wage, or approximately €5,000 in 2022.
| Sector of activity | Possible jobs | Minimum remuneration |
|---|---|---|
| Animation | Camp supervisor, sports lessons | SMIC - 20% |
| Agriculture | Harvesting | SMIC - 20% |
| Amenities | Sales, customer service, cashier assistance | SMIC - 10% |
Protection and supervision of young workers
The safety and well-being of young workers must be at the heart of any hiring policy. France has introduced a number of mechanisms to protect this segment of the workforce from abuse and risk.
Length and organization of working hours
To guarantee the health of minors, strict rules govern their working hours. Minors under 18 years of age may not exceed 8 hours/day and 35 hours/week.
Young people between the ages of 14 and 16 may not work more than 7 hours a day. In addition, they benefit from a daily rest period of at least 14 hours thanks to these provisions. Regarding night work, it is prohibited from 8 p.m. to 6 a.m., except in exceptional circumstances validated by the Labor Inspectorate. Overtime, limited to 5 hours per week, requires special authorization, adding a layer of reinforced protection for young people.
Regulated and prohibited work
Regulations strictly prohibit certain types of work that could endanger the health of young workers. Activities involving the risk of exposure to chemicals, mechanical vibrations, or extreme heat are prohibited. Furthermore, young people cannot sleep at their workplace or be assigned to certain positions deemed inconsistent with safety expectations for their age.
| Type of work | Restrictions | Reasons |
|---|---|---|
| Working at height | Forbidden for young people | Risk of major accident |
| Handling chemicals | Forbidden | Health risk |
| Carrying heavy loads | Forbidden | Physical risk |
otoyoutube query=”Working conditions of minors in France”
[ototwitter query=”Discussion on the rights of child workers”]The issues surrounding miners' work remain crucial to guaranteeing their physical and moral integrity. Unions such as the CFDTthe CGT and FO are very involved in these issues, advocating for regular reviews of laws to ensure that the rights of young workers are respected.
How old do you have to be to start working legally in France?
The minimum working age in France is 16. However, young people aged between 14 and 16 can carry out light work under certain conditions.
Exceptionally, is it possible to work before the age of 14?
Yes, but only in specific areas with parental authorization and prior validation.
What kind of work is allowed for 14-16 year olds?
Young people between the ages of 14 and 16 can work in light jobs such as entertainment or agriculture, as long as this does not compromise their health.
Can 16-year-olds work without parental consent?
No, parental permission is generally required, especially for high-risk jobs.
How many hours can a minor work per week?
Young people under 18 can work up to 35 hours a week, with restrictions on working hours.
What sectors are prohibited for minors?
Minors are not allowed to work in sectors that are hazardous to their health, such as those exposing them to toxic products.
What type of contract is available for a young worker?
Young people generally sign fixed-term contracts (CDD) or seasonal contracts.
Can miners be paid less than the minimum wage?
Yes, minors can have a reduced salary with an allowance that depends on their age.
Do miners have to pay taxes on their wages?
No, miners pay no tax if their annual income does not exceed three times the minimum wage.
Is it possible to work overtime as a minor?
Yes, overtime can be authorized, but only under strict conditions.