Tamil Nadu Factories Act, 1950

Tamil Nadu Factories Act, 1950

The Tamil Nadu Factories Act, 1950, is a state-specific legislation derived from the central Factories Act, 1948. It plays a pivotal role in regulating the working conditions, health, safety, and welfare of workers in factories within Tamil Nadu. Here's a closer look at this essential legislation.


Key Objectives of the Act

The Tamil Nadu Factories Act, 1950, aims to:

Safeguard workers' health and safety.

Ensure adequate welfare measures.

Regulate working hours and employment of young persons.

Promote a safe and conducive working environment.


Overview of the Chapters

The act is structured into 11 chapters, each addressing specific aspects of factory operations and worker rights:

Chapter I: Preliminary

This chapter lays the groundwork by defining key terms such as "factory," "worker," and "occupier." It outlines the scope and applicability of the act.

Chapter II: The Inspecting Staff

Appointment and powers of inspectors.

Their role in ensuring compliance with the act.

Chapter III: Health

Addresses:

Cleanliness and proper disposal of waste.

Ventilation, lighting, and control of dust and fumes.

Provision of safe drinking water.

Chapter IV: Safety

Focuses on:

Machinery safety, fencing, and precautions during maintenance.

Handling hazardous processes and substances.

Chapter V: Welfare

Mandates:

Restroom and washing facilities.

First aid and medical facilities.

Creches for workers' children.

Appointment of welfare officers in large factories.

Chapter VI: Working Hours of Adults

Regulates:

Maximum working hours (9 hours/day, 48 hours/week).

Overtime wages and weekly offs.

Rest intervals to prevent fatigue.

Chapter VII: Employment of Young Persons

Prohibits employment of children under 14.

Restrictions on adolescent work, ensuring safety and limited hours.

Chapter VIII: Annual Leave with Wages

Outlines:

Entitlement to annual leave.

Accumulation and encashment of leave.

Chapter IX: Special Provisions

Regulations for dangerous operations.

Protection measures in factories under public control.

Chapter X: Penalties and Procedures

Penalties for non-compliance.

Processes for addressing grievances and violations.

Chapter XI: Supplemental

Covers miscellaneous provisions like accident reporting and maintenance of records.


Schedules in the Act

The act includes several schedules specifying hazardous industries, permissible limits of exposure to harmful substances, and notifiable occupational diseases. These schedules ensure that workers' health is not compromised.


Tamil Nadu-Specific Amendments

Over the years, Tamil Nadu has introduced amendments to:

Strengthen safety norms, especially in industries like textiles and firecrackers.

Simplify processes for factory registration and compliance.

Enhance welfare measures for workers.


Why the Act Matters

The Tamil Nadu Factories Act, 1950, is more than just a regulatory framework. It ensures:

Workers’ rights are protected.

Factories operate within safe and ethical parameters.

A harmonious balance between industrial growth and worker welfare.

 

 

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