OSH Code, 2020 – Latest Updates on Factory Safety, Working Hours & HR Compliance Guide

By Guru Nageswara Rao

OSH Code, 2020 – Latest Updates on Factory Safety, Working Hours & HR Compliance Guide

The Occupational Safety, Health and Working Conditions (OSH) Code, 2020 is one of the four major labour codes introduced to consolidate laws relating to workplace safety, health, welfare, and working conditions.

This article provides a latest, practical, and HR-focused explanation of the OSH Code, especially relevant for factories, manufacturing units, and establishments employing workers.

1. Labour Laws Consolidated under the OSH Code

The OSH Code consolidates multiple labour laws relating to safety, health, and working conditions, including:

  • Factories Act, 1948
  • Contract Labour (Regulation and Abolition) Act, 1970
  • Inter-State Migrant Workmen Act, 1979
  • Plantations Labour Act, 1951
  • Mines Act, 1952
  • Other sector-specific safety laws

The objective is to provide a uniform safety and welfare framework across establishments.

2. Applicability of the OSH Code

The OSH Code applies to:

  • Factories as defined under the Code
  • Establishments employing workers in notified sectors
  • Contract labour and inter-state migrant workers

Applicability thresholds and conditions are subject to Central and State Rules notified under the Code.

3. Employer’s Duties on Safety and Health

Employers are responsible for ensuring a safe and healthy workplace. Key duties include:

  • Maintaining clean and hygienic work premises
  • Ensuring safe machinery and equipment
  • Providing adequate ventilation, lighting, and drinking water
  • Preventing occupational hazards

Failure to ensure safety may attract penalties under the Code.

4. Working Hours, Weekly Off & Overtime

The OSH Code regulates:

  • Daily and weekly working hours
  • Weekly rest days
  • Overtime work and payment

Overtime wages must be paid at the prescribed rate when employees work beyond normal working hours.

5. Employment of Women – Key Provisions

The Code permits employment of women in all establishments, including during night shifts, subject to compliance with prescribed safety conditions.

  • Consent of women employees
  • Adequate safety, lighting, and transport facilities
  • Compliance with State Rules

6. Contract Labour & Inter-State Migrant Workers

The OSH Code streamlines provisions relating to contract labour and inter-state migrant workers.

  • Registration of principal employer and contractor
  • Welfare facilities and displacement allowance
  • Electronic registration and portability of benefits

7. Registers, Returns & Registration

Employers are required to:

  • Register establishments electronically
  • Maintain prescribed registers
  • Submit statutory returns within timelines

Digital compliance and web-based inspections are encouraged.

8. Inspector-cum-Facilitator & Enforcement

The Code introduces the concept of an Inspector-cum-Facilitator, with emphasis on compliance guidance and transparency.

Inspections may be conducted through web-based systems as per notified rules.

9. Penalties for Non-Compliance

Penalties under the OSH Code include monetary fines for:

  • Violation of safety provisions
  • Failure to maintain registers or submit returns
  • Non-registration of establishments

Serious or repeat violations may attract higher penalties.

10. Practical HR Compliance Checklist – OSH Code

  • Register the factory or establishment under the OSH Code
  • Conduct regular safety audits
  • Maintain safety, health, and welfare registers
  • Ensure compliance with working hours and overtime rules
  • Implement safety measures for women employees
  • Train supervisors and workers on safety procedures
  • Monitor Central and State Rules updates

Related Labour Codes – Complete Series

Disclaimer: This content is for educational purposes only and is based on the OSH Code, 2020 and applicable Central and State Rules. It does not constitute legal advice.

Related Labour Law Guides (Latest)

For a complete understanding of India’s new labour law framework, refer to the following detailed and updated guides:

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