Can We Offer a Day Off for Overtime? Seeking Advice on Legal Compliance for Shift Changes

Hello Seniors / Colleagues,

I would like to inquire if we can provide a compensatory day off in lieu of overtime. Currently, my plant operates in two shifts: 6 am to 2 pm (A Shift) and 2 pm to 10 pm (B Shift) for six days a week. I am considering running the plant on every Thursday and Friday in two shifts: 6 am to 6 pm and 6 pm to 6 am. In exchange for this schedule change, we are planning to have off days on Saturday, as Sunday is our regular day off.

Before proceeding with this schedule adjustment, I would like to confirm if it aligns with legal and compliance requirements.

Regards,
Rohit

Dear Rohit,

Please go through the provisions of Sec. 59 of the Factories Act, 1948. The Act specifically provides for the payment of wages for overtime work at twice the rate of ordinary wages. If so, how would you settle for Compensatory Off (C-Off) instead of O.T wages - that too at that of normal off? When the Act prescribes a particular mode of compliance, you cannot do it otherwise.