The Factory Act 1948 is an Indian law enacted to ensure the safety, health, and welfare of industrial workers. This act applies to factories where 10 or more workers are employed with the use of electricity, or 20 or more workers without electricity.
The key provisions of this act are as follows:
- Safety: Ensures worker protection by mandating machine safety, use of safety equipment, fire prevention, and other hazard protections.
- Health: Requires essential facilities for workers, such as cleanliness, lighting, ventilation, and safe drinking water at the workplace.
- Welfare: Mandates welfare facilities like canteens, crèches (childcare centers), and restrooms for workers.
- Working Hours: Specifies rules for working hours, overtime, and leaves to prevent worker exploitation.
- Special Provisions: Includes specific provisions for women and young workers, limiting their work hours and types of duties.
The primary objective of the Factory Act 1948 is to provide a safe and healthy environment for workers and to protect their rights at the workplace.