Factory Act

The Factory Act 1948 is a constitutional act that came into existence on 28 August 1948 for the welfare and safety of factory workers. In the 19th century, there was a massive rise in the number of factories and factory workers. Before the 1948 factory Act, the 1934 Factory Act existed but it had gaps and weaknesses which made the act less effective. It mainly takes care of safety, health care, wages, and the overall welfare of workers.

The objective of Factories Act 1948:

• Health: As per the Factory Act 1948, workers must get the ideal environment, safety precautions, light, air, and other basic facilities that affect health.
• Safety: Safety measures must be taken care of as factories are surrounded by types of machinery and hazardous equipment. There must be proper fencing and no manholes to protect workers.
• Working Hours: There should be fixed time for working hours every day which should not exceed the limit of 48 hours in a week.
• Penalties: In case any of the rules under the Factory Act 1948 are hampered or not followed, it is treated as an offense and penalties will be imposed which include imprisonment, fine, or both.
• Welfare: Apart from basic facilities, for the welfare of factory workers, there must be facilities for washing and drying of clothes, first aid, restrooms, shelters, lunch areas, etc.