Question

Name of enforcement agency for the health and safety laws in india

Answer 1

Introduction The Constitution of India enshrines detailed provisions for the rights of citizens (and other persons) and the principles to be followed by states in the governance of the country, known as the “Directive Principles of State Policy”. These Directive Principles provide for securing the health of workers, both men and women, ensuring that children are not abused at a tender age; that citizens are not forced by economic necessity to enter into vocations which are not suited to their age or strength; that just and humane conditions and maternity relief are provided at the workplace; and that the government shall take steps, by suitable legislation or in any other way, to secure the participation of workers in the management of undertakings, establishments or other organisations engaged in any industry. On the basis of these Directive Principles, the Government of India declares its policies, priorities, strategies and purpose through the exercise of its power. It is committed to regulate all economic activities among the states and with foreign nations for the management of occupational safety and health risks and to provide measures for the protection of national assets, for general welfare and to assure, as far as possible, every working man and woman in the nation a safe and healthy working condition to preserve human resources. Like most other countries, India thus tries to reinforce occupational health and safety (OHS) by implementing laws which regulate the measures that companies have to take. In order to guarantee a sufficient level of OHS throughout the country, these Acts lay down very basic minimum requirements. In this way, the differences between states in the administration of the Act can be minimised. Another intention of these detailed provisions is to streamline the work of inspectors who have to examine the conditions of work in factories, thereby implying that inspectors have expert knowledge of the subject. The formulation of policies, priorities and strategies in OHS and the environment at workplace is not undertaken by national authorities alone, but is done in consultation with social partners, i.e., employees’ organisations, employers’ organisations, Unit 6 Occupational Health and safety Legislation in India 5 Occupational Health and Safety: Legal and Operational Guide ©2014 PRIA International Academy autonomous and voluntary organisations, the public, etc, to ensure that the set goals/objectives are met. The Government of India firmly believes that without safe and healthy working conditions, social justice cannot be achieved and that the attainment of safety and health at work is fundamental to economic growth. Learning Objectives After completing this Unit, you should be familiar with the following concepts and issues.  The legislation available in India in relation to OHS  Guidelines of major OHS legislation in India, namely, the Factories Act, the Mines Act, the Employees’ State Insurance Act and the Workmen’s Compensation Act.  Inadequacy of OHS legislation in India. Unit 6 Occupational Health and safety Legislation in India 6 Occupational Health and Safety: Legal and Operational Gui