From annual health check-ups to legal protections: Key provisions for dock workers under new labour codes

(File photo)

The Centre has implemented four new labour codes, marking the biggest overhaul of workers’ laws in decades. With this, the Centre has unified 29 central labour laws under a consolidated framework.

The four codes are the Code on Wages 2019, the Industrial Relations Code 2020, the Code on Social Security 2020 and the Occupational Safety, Health and Working Conditions Code 2020.

The government says the move aims to simplify rules and improve worker protection.

Labour reforms for dock workers:

Under the new labour codes, several key changes have been made for dock workers, according to a list issued by the PIB. Here are the new provisions -

• All dock workers to get formal recognition, Legal Protection.
• Mandatory appointment letters to guarantee social security benefits.
• Provident fund, pension, and insurance benefits ensured for all, whether contract or temporary dock workers.
• Employer-funded annual health check-ups mandatory.
• Dock workers to get mandatory medical facilities, first aid, sanitary and washing areas, etc., to ensure decent work conditions and safety.

Labour reforms for export sector workers:

Similarly, new provisions have also been introduced for export sector workers. Following are the key reforms -

• Export sector fixed term workers to receive gratuity, provident fund (PF), and other social security benefits.
• Every worker to have the option of availing annual leaves after 180 days of work in a year.
• Every worker to get right to timely wage payment and no unauthorized wage deductions and no wage ceiling restrictions.
• Women allowed to work in night shifts with consent, ensuring opportunity to earn higher income.
• Safety and welfare measures include mandatory written consent, double wages for overtime, safe transportation, CCTV surveillance, and security arrangements.