Each year, more than 31,000 young workers across Canada are injured seriously enough to need time off work.

Meanwhile, some are unaware that they have the right to be paid fairly for the work they do.

That’s why the federal government, the provinces and territories are jointly
launching the first national video contest on workplace safety and fairness. The contest opens for submissions Feb. 1, 2013.

With cash prizes of up to $3,000, the “It’s Your Job” contest invites contestants to submit a video of up to two minutes on any topic related to awareness about workplace health and safety, or employment standards.

“This is an opportunity for young Canadians to speak out on workplace rights and
responsibilities, because ultimately, it’s about their livelihood and their lives,” said George Gritziotis, chief prevention officer at the Ontario Ministry of Labour. Gritziotis is heading the Ontario portion of the contest.

“We want to hear and learn from youth who are, frankly, in the best position to tell us how to reach other youths.”

The ages 18-24 category is open to Canadians in all provinces and territories, and
will be held nationally. Meanwhile, secondary school students will compete within their own province or territory.

Winning videos from those contests will then compete against others across Canada. A panel of celebrity judges will select the top winners.

The top videos from all jurisdictions will also be viewed by Canadians online in May 2013, during which everyone will have an opportunity to vote for their favourite.

The contest closes on April 5, 2013.

For more information about the contest, visit youtube.com/yourjobvotretravail.