The Kerala Shops and Commercial Establishments Act, 1960, is a state-level legislation enacted in Kerala, India, to regulate the conditions of work and employment in shops and commercial establishments. Here’s a brief overview of its key provisions:
- Objective: The primary objective of the Kerala Shops and Commercial Establishments Act, 1960, is to regulate the working conditions of employees in shops and commercial establishments, ensuring their welfare, safety, and rights.
- Applicability: The Act applies to all shops and commercial establishments in the state of Kerala, including retail stores, restaurants, hotels, banks, and other similar establishments.
- Key Provisions:
- Working Hours: The Act regulates the working hours of employees, specifying the maximum number of hours that can be worked in a day and a week. It also mandates rest intervals and overtime provisions.
- Holidays: The Act provides for mandatory holidays for employees, including weekly holidays and annual leave with wages.
- Employment of Women and Children: Provisions are made for regulating the employment of women and children, ensuring their safety, and prohibiting their employment during certain hours.
- Employment Conditions: The Act mandates certain employment conditions such as provisions for leave, maternity benefits for female employees, and provisions for termination of employment.
- Record Keeping and Registers: Employers are required to maintain registers and records prescribed under the Act, including records of employment, wages, attendance, and leave.
- Inspections and Penalties: The Act provides for inspections by designated authorities to ensure compliance with its provisions. It also prescribes penalties for violations, including fines and other punitive measures.
- Amendments: Like many other labor laws, the Kerala Shops and Commercial Establishments Act has undergone amendments over the years to reflect changes in working conditions, employment practices, and societal norms.
Overall, the Kerala Shops and Commercial Establishments Act, 1960, plays a crucial role in safeguarding the rights and interests of workers employed in shops and commercial establishments across the state of Kerala, ensuring fair and humane working conditions.