Temporary workers, interns, and apprentices play vital roles in Pennsylvania workplaces. However, their employment rights often go overlooked or misunderstood. Whether you are gaining experience, learning a trade, or filling a temporary position, it’s important to know the protections the law provides you.

Employment Classification Matters

How you’re classified—whether as a temporary employee, intern, or apprentice—affects your legal rights. Temporary workers are often employed through staffing agencies, which can make questions about pay, benefits, and workplace safety complicated. Interns may be unpaid under certain conditions, but federal and Pennsylvania laws require that unpaid internships primarily benefit the intern, not the employer. Apprentices, on the other hand, typically receive pay and are covered under wage and hour laws.

Wage and Hour Protections

Under Pennsylvania law, most temporary workers and apprentices are entitled to at least the state minimum wage and overtime pay for hours worked over 40 per week. Unpaid internships must meet specific criteria under the Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA). If an employer misclassifies an intern to avoid paying wages, that could violate state and federal labor laws.

Workplace Safety and Anti-Discrimination Laws

All workers—temporary, permanent, or otherwise—are protected under workplace safety laws and anti-discrimination statutes. The Pennsylvania Human Relations Act (PHRA) prohibits discrimination based on race, gender, religion, disability, and other protected categories. Apprentices and temps are also protected from retaliation if they report unsafe working conditions or discrimination.

The Right to Fair Treatment

Even if you are not a full-time employee, you have the right to fair treatment in the workplace. Temporary and apprentice workers are entitled to safe environments, proper training, and accurate pay. Interns who are paid are also covered by the same wage and discrimination protections as other employees.

At The Lovitz Law Firm, we can provide legal assistance to the Philadelphia public. If you believe your rights as a temporary worker, intern, or apprentice have been violated, our team can help you understand your options and pursue fair treatment under the law.