Counting Contract Workers in Tamil Nadu: Do They Affect the Standing Orders Act Threshold?

Dear Seniors, In Tamil Nadu, an establishment where 20 or more workmen are working is covered under the Standing Orders Act of 1946. In this case, are the Contract Workers working on the premises being counted to reach the count of 20, or not?

Thanks,
K.K

Since the standing orders are not applicable to contract workers for the purpose of coverage under the Industrial Employment (Standing Orders) Act, we need not include contract workers. However, for all other purposes, such as the coverage of the ESI Act, EPF Act, Payment of Bonus Act, Payment of Gratuity Act, etc., contract workers should be counted to determine the applicability of the respective Acts.

Please let me know if the Industrial Disputes Act applies to contract workers.

Contract workers are covered under the Industrial Disputes (ID) Act. They can submit their grievances for redressal to the appropriate authorities under the ID Act.

Regards,
Madhu.T.K