Describe the provisions related to health in Factory Act-1948.

 The Factory Act, 1948 is a significant piece of legislation enacted by the Indian government to regulate and ensure the safety, health, welfare, and working conditions of workers employed in factories. The Act lays down various provisions related to health that the employers must comply with for the benefit of their workers.

Provisions related to Health under the Factory Act-1948:

1. Cleanliness and Sanitation: Every factory must ensure that its premises are kept clean and free from dirt and accumulation of waste materials. The Act mandates that every factory must have adequate and suitable arrangements for the disposal of wastes and effluents.

2. Ventilation and Temperature: The Factory Act-1948 requires that every factory must have sufficient ventilation to ensure the circulation of fresh air and the removal of dust, fumes, and other impurities. The Act also prescribes that the temperature in every factory must be maintained to ensure the comfort of workers.

3. Dust and Fume: The Act requires that every factory must take adequate measures to prevent the accumulation of dust and fumes. If the nature of the work involves the production or handling of any dust or fumes, the factory must provide the workers with protective equipment such as masks, goggles, etc.

4. Artificial Humidification: If the factory involves any process that results in the artificial humidification of the air, the employer must maintain the humidity level within the prescribed limits. The employer must also take measures to prevent the accumulation of moisture and the growth of bacteria.

5. Overcrowding: The Factory Act-1948 prohibits the overcrowding of workers in any part of the factory. The Act prescribes a minimum space requirement of 14.2 cubic meters for every worker employed in the factory.

6. Lighting: Every factory must have sufficient and suitable lighting arrangements. The lighting must be such that it does not cause any discomfort or strain to the eyes of workers.

7. Drinking Water: Every factory must provide its workers with clean and safe drinking water. The water must be easily accessible to the workers.

8. Latrines and Urinals: Every factory must provide adequate and suitable latrines and urinals for its workers. The latrines and urinals must be kept clean and maintained in a hygienic condition.

9. Spittoons: Every factory must provide its workers with spittoons. The spittoons must be maintained in a clean and hygienic condition.

10. First Aid: Every factory must provide its workers with adequate first aid facilities. The first aid box must be easily accessible to the workers, and a trained person must be appointed to administer first aid in case of an emergency.

11. Medical Facilities: Every factory must have a properly equipped medical room with a qualified medical practitioner in attendance. The medical practitioner must be available during the working hours of the factory.

12. Health and Safety Committees: The Factory Act-1948 mandates that every factory with more than 250 workers must constitute a health and safety committee. The committee must meet at least once every quarter to discuss the measures taken to ensure the health and safety of workers.

Conclusion:

The provisions related to health under the Factory Act-1948 are crucial for ensuring the well-being of workers employed in factories. Employers must comply with these provisions to provide a safe and healthy working environment to their workers. The Act lays down specific guidelines that employers must follow, and failure to comply with these guidelines can lead to legal action against the employer.

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