Health Measures in Factories Act, 1948

Factories Act, 1948, mandates several health measures to ensure a safe and healthy working environment for factory workers. These measures are designed to prevent health hazards and promote the overall well-being of employees.

Cleanliness

• Requirement:

Factories must be kept clean and free from dust, dirt, and other impurities.

• Conditions:

The Act specifies that floors, workrooms, walls, ceilings, and passages should be cleaned at regular intervals. Effective means of drainage should be provided, and all dirt and refuse must be removed daily.

Disposal of Wastes and Effluents

• Requirement:

Proper arrangements must be made for the disposal of wastes and effluents generated during the manufacturing process.

• Conditions:

The disposal methods must comply with state-prescribed regulations to prevent environmental contamination and health risks.

Ventilation and Temperature

• Requirement:

Factories must provide adequate ventilation and maintain reasonable temperature levels to ensure worker comfort and health.

• Conditions:

There should be an adequate supply of fresh air and measures to reduce excessive heat. Windows and ventilators should be constructed and maintained to facilitate proper ventilation.

Dust and Fumes

• Requirement:

Effective measures must be taken to prevent the inhalation of dust and fumes that are injurious to health.

• Conditions:

Local exhaust ventilation systems or other suitable devices should be installed to capture and remove dust and fumes at the source.

Artificial Humidification

• Requirement:

Factories using artificial humidification must maintain it at safe levels.

• Conditions:

The Act mandates the regulation of water quality used for humidification and the periodic cleaning of the humidification systems to prevent the spread of waterborne diseases.

Overcrowding

• Requirement:

Factories must not be overcrowded to the extent that it poses a risk to the health of the workers.

• Conditions:

The Act specifies minimum space requirements per worker to prevent overcrowding, ensuring sufficient breathing space and reducing the risk of communicable diseases.

Lighting

• Requirement:

Adequate and suitable lighting, natural or artificial, must be provided in every part of the factory where workers are employed.

• Conditions:

The lighting must be sufficient to prevent eye strain and accidents. Factory management should ensure that all work areas are well-lit and that emergency lighting is available in case of power failures.

Drinking Water

• Requirement:

Factories must provide and maintain a sufficient supply of wholesome drinking water.

• Conditions:

Drinking water points must be conveniently located and clearly marked. The water supply should be tested periodically to ensure it is free from contamination. In large factories, the drinking water should be cooled and supplied through sanitary drinking fountains.

Latrines and Urinals

• Requirement:

Adequate and suitable latrine and urinal facilities must be provided separately for male and female workers.

• Conditions:

These facilities must be maintained in a clean and sanitary condition. The number of latrines and urinals should be proportional to the number of workers. They should be accessible, ventilated, and well-lit.

Spittoons

• Requirement:

Sufficient number of spittoons must be provided in convenient locations within the factory.

• Conditions:

Spittoons must be maintained in a clean and hygienic condition, with regular cleaning schedules. Workers should be informed about the proper use of spittoons to prevent unhygienic practices.

Precautions in Case of Fire

• Requirement:

Factories must be equipped with adequate fire safety measures.

• Conditions:

Fire exits should be clearly marked and kept free from obstructions. Firefighting equipment should be available and maintained in working order. Workers should be trained in fire safety procedures and regular fire drills should be conducted.

Safety Officers

• Requirement:

Factories employing a certain number of workers must appoint safety officers.

• Conditions:

Safety officers are responsible for ensuring compliance with safety and health regulations, conducting safety audits, and promoting safety awareness among workers.

Implementation and Compliance

The health measures under the Factories Act, 1948, are enforced by Factory Inspectors appointed by the State Government. These inspectors have the authority to inspect factories, examine health records, and ensure that all health provisions are being followed. Non-compliance with these provisions can result in penalties, including fines and imprisonment for factory management.