What Are the Rules for Ensuring Safe Night Shift Transport for Female Employees?

What does the Shop & Establishment Act say about female employees providing home drop during night shifts?

In many countries, including India, the Shop & Establishment Act contains provisions regarding the safety and working conditions of employees during night shifts. Specifically, the Act may address concerns related to female employees working late hours and provide guidelines for their safety, including arrangements for transportation or home drops after working late shifts. It is essential for employers to be aware of and comply with these regulations to ensure the well-being and security of their employees, especially female staff working during night hours.

Employer Duties for Night Shift Safety

Police have been informing employers about their duties, especially for female employees working at night. In 2010, Police Commissioner S.S. Deswal of Gurgaon sent letters to all BPOs in the city, directing them to take necessary steps for the protection of women. These steps included proper police verification of cab drivers, security in cabs, GPS-enabled cabs, and a dedicated emergency hotline number.

The order was issued under Section 144 of the Criminal Procedure Code, and employers violating the order are liable to be punished under Section 188 (disobedience of an official order) of the Indian Penal Code. This offense entails imprisonment of up to six months, a fine of Rs. 1,000, or both.