Goa Govt. approves amendment to Factories Act to allow Women in Night Shifts

The state government of Goa recently approved an amendment to Factories Act 1948 which will allow deployment of women in night shifts (from 7pm to 6 am) in industries. It is a welcome step taken by Goa government towards women empowerment.

Key Highlights

The Amendment Bill was approved by state cabinet and is set to be tabled during upcoming Legislative Assembly session.

Need: Specific provision restricting employments of women at night have had a deterred effect on employment of women.

Importance:

The amendment will allow deployment of women in night shifts in industries and might end the discrimination against female workers as far as job opportunities are concerned.

It will give trouble-free space to women to excel in their careers and will also help women get more jobs.

It is a revolutionary step which might bring about equality at workplace.

What is Factories Act 1948?

Administration: It is administered by Union Ministry of Labour and Employment via Directorate General Factory Advice Service & Labour Institutes (DGFASLI), which advises Central and State Governments on administration of Factories Act and coordinates factory inspection services in States. In state the act is administered by State Governments through their factory inspectorates.

Amendment: It was amended by Factories (Amendment) Act, 1987 and serves to assist in formulating national policies with respect to occupational safety and health in factories and docks in India.

Focus Area: It deals with different problems concerning health, safety, efficiency and well-being of persons at work places.

Covers: It is applicable to establishments with 10 or more workers, if premise is using power and to establishments with 20 or more workers, without electricity connection.

Month: Current Affairs - June, 2019