Night Shifts for Women in Gujarat: Can Your Company Share Its Experience?

If you can shed some light on the permission for female employees to work night shifts, i.e., after 10 p.m. until 6:00 a.m. Our manufacturing unit is based in Gujarat. If any unit employs female staff during night shifts, please provide the name for reference.

Thank you in advance.

Regards,
Dhiren Bhatt

Exemptions Under the Factories Act and Shops and Commercial Establishments Act

This is a restrictive provision given in the Factories Act and Shops and Commercial Establishments Act. However, the State authorities have been given the right to consider this and exempt establishments from the operation of this provision. Accordingly, industry-wise and region-wise exemptions are granted. The IT industry in many states is exempted from this provision on the condition that adequate measures are taken for the safe working and transport of women during odd hours.

Regards,
Madhu.T.K

Legal Reference for Night Shift Work for Women

Please go through Section 66 of the Factories Act and the case of Vasantha R. vs Union Of India (UOI) And Ors. on 8 December 2000. Equivalent citations: (2001) IILLJ 843 Mad. You will get the answer. The restriction concerning night shifts for women has been removed, subject to the guidelines laid down in the judgment.

Regards,
Mohinder Charak
Legal Consultant
HR Solutions
Delhi
[Phone Number Removed For Privacy Reasons].

Clarification on Night Shift Regulations for Female Employees

But the act still says that women can work in a factory after 7:30 p.m. without approval from the factory inspector. Does the judgment override this provision?