In a significant move towards enhancing workplace gender inclusivity, the Government of Kerala has issued a fresh notification on March 27, 2025 regarding the employment of women during night shifts under the Factories Act, 1948. This notification, aims to provide a structured framework to ensure the safety, dignity, and well-being of female workers in certain industries.
Key Highlights of the Notification:
Extended Working Hours: Women can now be employed in specific factories between 6 a.m. and 10 p.m.
Limitation : Employment of women is strictly prohibited between 10 p.m. and 5 a.m.
Safety Measures:
- Separate dormitory accommodations must be provided.
- Free transport with security personnel for women working beyond 7 p.m.
- Strict Adherence to Legal Provisions:
- Daily working hours must comply with Section 54 of the Factories Act, with no exemptions.
- Shift rotations must ensure weekly holidays are respected.
- Monitoring and Compliance:
- Details of exemptions must be recorded in Form-33 of the inspection book.
- The management is obligated to uphold the dignity, self-esteem, and safety of female workers.
- Revocable Exemption: The government reserves the right to revise or revoke this exemption at any time based on sufficient grounds.
Industries Covered Under the Notification:
The exemption applies to a wide range of industries, including:
- Food & Beverage Processing (Milk, Spices, Cashew Nuts, etc.)
- Manufacturing Sectors (Tea, Coir, Garments, Electronics, Rubber, Plastic)
- Medical Fields (Pharmaceuticals, Diagnostic Reagents, Blood Bags)
- Industrial Processes (Aluminium Extrusion, Metal Coating, Waste Segregation)
Why This Matters:
This move reflects Kerala’s progressive stance on labor reforms, focusing on creating safe and inclusive workplaces for women. By establishing clear guidelines, the government aims to strike a balance between economic growth and worker welfare, ensuring that the participation of women in the workforce is both meaningful and secure.
