The Office of the Labour Commissioner for Jammu and Kashmir has issued an important notice directed at all owners, managers, occupiers, and associates of factory units operating within the region. This notice serves to remind stakeholders of their obligations under the Factories Act, 1948, and the Jammu and Kashmir Factory Rules, 1972.
Importance of Compliance
According to the notification (SR-239 dated 07-07-1973), it is essential for all factories to comply with the legal requirements which involve the following:
- Registration: All factory units must ensure they are registered in accordance with the Factories Act, 1948.
- Licensing: Factories should secure the necessary licenses to operate legally.
- Safety Standards: Compliance with workplace safety standards is mandatory to ensure the health and safety of employees.
Definition of a Factory
As per Section-2 of the Factories Act, a “factory” is defined as any premises where manufacturing processes take place. This encompasses a wide range of activities, including but not limited to:
- Manufacturing goods (e.g., making, altering, repairing)
- Processes related to oiling, washing, cleaning, and demolition
- Treating or adapting any article or substance for sale
- Generating electricity, pumping water, or other similar operations
- Activities involving construction, publication, or any form of storage
Current Compliance Status
The Labour Commissioner has noted a concerning trend: while there has been an increase in the number of registered industries, many factory units in Jammu and Kashmir are still not fulfilling their registration obligations under the Factories Act. This oversight not only poses risks to the factory workers but also undermines the established labour standards.
Call to Action
Factory owners and managers are urged to take immediate action to ensure compliance with the requirements set forth by the Factories Act. This involves:
- Registering with the Department of Labour.
- Ensuring adherence to the safety and health guidelines laid out in the Act.
- Prioritizing the welfare of workers by maintaining acceptable working conditions.
By adhering to these guidelines, factory units can contribute to a safer and more compliant working environment for all employees, thus fulfilling their legal obligations under the law.
For further details, stakeholders are encouraged to refer to the complete guidelines available through the Labour Commissioner’s office.
Cross Town News has shared this information to ensure widespread awareness of these essential requirements among those involved in factory operations in the region.
