In a landmark move towards gender equality and workplace inclusivity, the delhi government has approved a policy allowing women to work night shifts in shops and commercial establishments. This progressive step aims to enhance economic opportunities for women while ensuring their safety and well-being.
📝 1. Written Consent Is Mandatory
Under the new policy, women must provide written consent before being assigned to night shifts. This ensures that their participation is voluntary and respects their autonomy in the workplace.
🕒 2. Strict Working Hour Regulations
Employers are required to adhere to stringent working hour limitations:
No employee shall work more than 9 hours in a day, including meal and rest breaks.
The maximum weekly working hours are capped at 48.
Employees must not work more than 5 consecutive hours without a break.
These measures aim to prevent overwork and promote a healthy work-life balance.
🚗 3. Employer Responsibility for Safety and Transportation
Employers must ensure the safety and security of women working night shifts by:
Providing safe transportation to and from the workplace.
Installing CCTV cameras in the premises, with footage retained for at least one month.
Employing female security staff during night shifts.
Ensuring the availability of basic amenities such as toilets, restrooms, and lockers.
These provisions are designed to create a secure and supportive working environment.
🛡️ 4. Formation of Internal Complaints Committees
To address workplace grievances, especially related to sexual harassment, establishments are mandated to:
Constitute Internal Complaints Committees (ICCs) as per the Sexual Harassment of women at Workplace (Prevention, Prohibition and Redressal) Act, 2013.
Ensure that employees are aware of their rights and the procedures to report any misconduct.
This initiative underscores the government's commitment to fostering a respectful and safe workplace culture.
💰 5. Entitlement to Overtime Pay and Statutory Benefits
Women working night shifts are entitled to:
Double pay for overtime hours worked.
Statutory benefits including Provident Fund (PF), Employee State Insurance (ESI), bonuses, and weekly offs.
Electronic transfer of wages to ensure transparency and timely payments.
These measures aim to ensure fair compensation and financial security for women workers.
🚫 6. Exclusion of Certain Establishments
The policy explicitly prohibits women from working night shifts in:
Liquor shops.
This exclusion is based on considerations related to safety and the nature of the establishment.
Delhi's new night shift policy for women represents a significant step towards gender equality in the workplace. By implementing these comprehensive safety guidelines and ensuring fair labor practices, the government aims to empower women and create a more inclusive workforce.
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