LAS VEGAS, NEVADA – The U.S. Department of Labor (DOL) has accused Blaze Pizza franchise operators in Las Vegas of employing dozens of children in violation of federal labor laws. The investigation resulted in $277,414 in civil penalties against Bryz Guyz Inc., which operates 10 Blaze Pizza locations in Las Vegas and Henderson.

Investigators found that Bryz Guyz Inc. willfully violated child labor laws by allowing:

• 23 minors, aged 15 to 17, to operate dangerous machinery: These teenagers were tasked with operating industrial pizza dough mixers, which pose safety hazards for young workers.
• Five 15-year-olds to work excessive hours: Federal law restricts work hours for 14 and 15-year-old employees to a maximum of three hours on school days and prohibits them from working past 7:00 p.m. The investigation revealed these teenagers consistently worked beyond these limitations, often clocking out as late as 10:30 p.m.

“While learning skills in the workplace is valuable for young people, their safety and education must come first,” stated Gene Ramos, Wage and Hour Division District Director in Las Vegas. “Federal law allows for these work experiences but requires employers to ensure these jobs are safe and don’t interfere with a child’s schooling.”

The Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA) regulates child labor practices to protect young workers’ well-being. The Department of Labor emphasizes that these regulations allow teenagers to gain valuable work experience while ensuring their safety and educational opportunities are not compromised.

For further information on child labor laws and other employee rights protected by the FLSA, individuals can contact the Wage and Hour Division’s toll-free helpline at 1-866-4US-WAGE (487-9243).

Source: Fox5Vegas