An investigation by the U.S. Department of Labor (DOL) has uncovered serious child labor violations at The Outpost, a pizza restaurant in Iron River, Michigan. Northern News Now reports that the business now faces fines totaling $97,933 after employing minors as young as 14 in roles prohibited for their age, including tasks like heavy lifting, handling sharp kitchen tools, and cooking over open flames. Young workers in harm’s way According to the DOL’s Wage and Hour Division, The Outpost employed twelve minors, ages 14 and 15, in roles that placed them in direct contact with dangerous machinery, including commercial deep fryers, ovens, meat slicers, and grills. Federal child labor laws prohibit minors under 16 from using such equipment due to the risk of severe burns, cuts, and other injuries. These young employees were found working in the kitchen alongside adult staff, lifting heavy items, operating sharp tools, and performing other tasks posing significant physical dangers. Thomas Gauza, district director of the Wage and Hour Division in Chicago states, “Child labor laws exist to protect minors from dangerous conditions and ensure their safety in the workplace. Employers have a duty to ensure young workers are safe, not placed in harm’s way.”