In a significant step towards gender-inclusive employment and promoting the Ease of Doing Business, the Government of Odisha has officially notified the conditions under which women workers may be employed during night shifts (7:00 p.m. to 6:00 a.m.) in registered factories across the state.
This move is made under the amended Section 66 of the Factories Act, 1948, as per the Factories (Odisha Amendment) Act, 2020, which empowers the state government to allow women to work at night subject to safety and welfare safeguards.
🔑 Key Conditions for Employing Women in Night Shifts
The government has allowed night shift employment for women only if the following mandatory conditions are met:
Written Consent Required
Women must voluntarily opt-in with written consent to work night shifts.
Maternity Protections
No woman may be employed in violation of the Maternity Benefit Act, 1961.
Safe Transportation
Pick-up and drop facilities near the woman’s residence with GPS tracking must be provided.
Separate Sanitary Facilities
Factories must ensure separate toilet and washroom facilities for women workers.
Crèche Facility for 30+ Women
Factories with over 30 women workers must provide or arrange crèche facilities, even during night shifts.
Well-Lit & Monitored Work Environment
CCTV coverage and adequate lighting are required in all areas accessed by women workers.
Exclusive Boarding with Women Wardens
Where boarding is provided, it must be exclusively for women and supervised by women wardens.
Prominent Helpline Display
Emergency contact numbers must be clearly displayed, including:
- Govt. Helpline for Women: 181
- Labour Dept. Helpline: 18003456703
Self-Certification Mandate
Occupiers must submit a self-certification on the official portal affirming full compliance with all conditions.
Strict Penalty for Non-Compliance
Violations will lead to action under Section 92 of the Factories Act, penalizing both Occupier and Manager.
📢 Purpose of the Notification
The government stated the objective is to expand employment opportunities for women while ensuring workplace safety, dignity, and legal protection. The directive is also aligned with improving the Ease of Doing Business for industries in Odisha.
🧾 Compliance & Monitoring
The Labour & ESI Department will monitor implementation, and non-compliance will attract legal penalties. Establishments are encouraged to act responsibly and adopt these guidelines as part of their commitment to gender-inclusive policies.