The Associated Press reports some of the risks faced by teen workers Studies show most teens are often unaware of their rights as workers, and because they don't have the experience of older workers, they don't easily recognize workplace dangers. A combination of youthful energy and a reluctance to ask questions also increases the chances of an injury at the workplace. Janelle Chaplin, 17, is a co-worker of Ullmer's at The Windmill Grill. Chaplin has been working at the restaurant since she was 16 and says being a cashier and hostess keeps her busy...when asked whether she knew what rights she had as an employee, Chaplin raised an eyebrow and hesitantly said no. She also said she received safety training but wasn't sure it was that helpful. "They showed me not to swallow the stuff we put in the bottles that we clean the tables with," she said. Chaplin also said that while she has considerate and helpful employers, she doesn't feel comfortable asking them questions. Chaplin said she has hurt herself several times, but it's not a big deal and she hasn't reported it to her employer. Each year, thousands of young workers are injured or killed on the job. Although there isn't a single data source that provides a comprehensive picture of teen injuries, the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health estimates more than 200,000 teens ages 14 to 17 are hurt at work every year. That is a higher rate than their adult co-workers, even though youths are restricted from the most hazardous of jobs, which include manufacturing and construction. According to NIOSH, an average of 67 workers under age 18 died from work-related injuries each year from 1992 through 2000. In 1998, an estimated 77,000 required treatment in hospital emergency rooms. The Institute of Medicine lists the most common injuries suffered by working teens as cuts, bruises, sprains and strains, burns and fractures or dislocations. It also notes the majority of jobs teens work are based in retail shops, restaurants and grocery stores.