The Government of Kerala has released a draft notification proposing to amend the Kerala Factories Rules, 1957, introducing detailed provisions on mandatory safety audits in factories. The amendments are aimed at strengthening occupational safety, health compliance, and risk management in industries operating across the state.
The draft, titled “Kerala Factories (Amendment) Rules, 2025,” has been issued under the powers conferred by Section 112 of the Factories Act, 1948 (Central Act 63 of 1948) and published as required under Section 115(1) of the same Act.
Public objections or suggestions are invited within 45 days of the publication of this draft in the Official Gazette (OCTOBER 18TH 2025) addressed to the Secretary, Labour and Skills (B) Department, Government Secretariat, Thiruvananthapuram – 695001.
Key Highlights of the Draft Amendment
1. Introduction of New Rule 81N – Safety Audit
A new provision, Rule 81N, is proposed to be inserted, making Safety Audits mandatory for specific categories of factories, namely:
- Those using, storing, or processing toxic, inflammable, explosive, or hazardous chemicals;
- Factories involving hazardous processes as defined under Section 2(cb) of the Factories Act, 1948;
- Factories employing 100 or more workers.
2. Definition of Safety Audit
The amendment defines a safety audit as a systematic, objective, and documented evaluation of occupational safety and health systems, workplace conditions, and compliance mechanisms.
A Safety Auditor refers to an institution recognized by the Chief Inspector of Factories to conduct such audits.
3. Frequency of Safety Audits
- Internal Audit: Once every year by a team of factory personnel.
- External Audit: Once every two years by a recognized Safety Auditor.
- Factories must conduct an external audit before any major change in manufacturing processes or layout.
4. Compliance with National Standards
Safety audits must adhere to the IS 14489:1998 – Code of Practice on Occupational Safety and Health Audit, or its latest version, ensuring uniformity and technical rigor.
5. Recognition of Safety Auditors
The Chief Inspector of Factories may recognize institutions as Safety Auditors if they:
- Employ at least three qualified professionals in mechanical, electrical, and chemical engineering disciplines.
- Meet the qualification and experience requirements listed in Schedule-A.
- Maintain independence, confidentiality, and ethical standards.
The recognition is valid for three years, with renewal procedures specified in the draft.
6. Mandatory Audit Procedures and Reporting
- Advance Intimation: Both the factory occupier and the auditor must notify the Factories and Boilers Department 15 days before starting an audit.
- Audit Report: To be submitted to the occupier and Chief Inspector within one month of completion.
- Action Taken Report: Occupiers must submit compliance status within 30 days after receiving the audit report.
- Immediate Hazard Notification: Any imminent danger discovered during audit must be immediately reported to the occupier and the Chief Inspector.
7. Safety Auditor’s Code of Conduct
Safety Auditors are barred from auditing factories:
- Where they or their family members have any financial or managerial interest;
- That purchase equipment or materials from the auditor;
- Where the auditor is an employee, partner, or director.
Confidential information obtained during audits must not be disclosed even after the auditor ceases employment.
8. Oversight and Revocation
The Chief Inspector may revoke or refuse renewal of an auditor’s recognition if found in violation of conditions, or after due inquiry.
Auditors have the right to appeal such orders to the State Government within 30 days.
9. Re-Audit Provisions
Re-audits are required:
- If directed by the Chief Inspector due to discrepancies;
- Within 30 days after any major accident under the Kerala Factories (Major Accident Hazard Control) Rules, 2005.
10. Exemptions
The Chief Inspector may exempt specific factories or categories under written order if compliance is impracticable, provided it does not compromise worker safety. Such exemptions can later be revoked by the government.
11. Qualifications for Safety Auditors (Schedule-A)
Each recognized Safety Auditor must employ professionals with:
- B.Tech/B.E. in Chemical, Mechanical, or Electrical Engineering with 5 years’ experience, or
- Diploma with 7 years’ experience plus a Post-Diploma or PG Diploma in Industrial Safety, or
- Equivalent qualifications in Fire & Safety or Industrial Safety engineering.
- Age limit: Maximum 65 years, with a fitness certificate required for auditors above 62 years.
Government’s Objective
The proposed amendment aims to make safety audits a structured compliance mechanism, ensuring:
- Early detection of workplace hazards,
- Improved safety culture and accountability, and
- Reduction in industrial accidents and major hazards.
By integrating regular internal and external audits, Kerala seeks to bring its industrial safety framework in line with modern occupational safety standards.
Conclusion
The Kerala Factories (Amendment) Rules, 2025 mark a significant policy step toward institutionalizing safety audits and reinforcing worker protection in hazardous and large-scale industries. Stakeholders and the public have 45 days to submit suggestions or objections before the draft is finalized.