Workplace injuries spark Christmas warning

The serious injuries of two young tradies just days out from Christmas has sparked a warning from workplace authorities.

A 16-year-old apprentice carpenter suffered suspected upper body fractures when he plunged three metres from a residential construction site in north-west Sydney on Tuesday.

On the same day, an apprentice welder suffered lacerations and a broken elbow when he was struck by part of a motor at a manufacturing business on the NSW mid north coast.

Investigations into both incidents are ongoing, with SafeWork NSW urging bosses to look after their young workers this Christmas.

"Pressure to meet deadlines can make it tempting to cut corners but all too often this leads to tragedy," SafeWork NSW acting executive director Tony Williams said on Thursday.

"Many thousands of school leavers and casual employees are also entering the workforce for the first time, keen to impress their colleagues and employers."