My business runs two ice cream making machines. These devices are high speed rotating devices but totally enclose so access to the rotating parts is impossible while in operation.

My question is - from the description can a minor age 16-17 operate this equipment? Or does the person need to be 18 or older?

I interpret the laws as it is ok...thoughts?

Dave

From OSHA www.osha.gov/SLTC/youth/restaurant/foodprep.html

Remember: Child Labor Laws do not permit employees younger than 18 to operate, set up, adjust, clean, oil, or repair power-driven equipment such as meat slicers or bakery mixers.

The FLSA forbids young workers (younger than 18 years old) from operating, setting up, adjusting, cleaning, oiling, or repairing power-driven meat slicers, grinders, choppers, cutters, and bakery mixers and other power-driven bakery machines. It is considered hazardous work.

Based on this, I would say err on the side of caution and only allow those who are over 18 to operate the machines.