The Punjab Occupational Safety and Health Act, 2019 (Act IV of 2019) was enacted to protect people at workplaces from occupational hazards and promote safe and healthy working environments throughout Punjab. It establishes duties for employers, employees, manufacturers and other persons responsible for workplace safety.
Key Sections of the Act
Section 1 – Short Title, Extent and Commencement
Defines the Act’s title, its application throughout Punjab and its commencement.
Section 3 – Duties of Employer
Sets out employers’ responsibilities for protecting employees’ safety and health at work.
Section 4 – Duties of Employees
Covers employees’ responsibilities relating to workplace safety and health.
Sections 5 & 6 – Duties to Other Persons
Address safety duties towards people other than an employer’s employees, including duties relating to premises under a person’s control.
Section 7 – Duties of Manufacturers
Covers manufacturers’ responsibilities regarding articles and substances intended for use at work.
Section 8 – Safety and Health
Addresses workplace safety and health requirements.
Section 9 – Written Statement of Policy
Covers the written occupational safety and health policy.
Section 10 – Consultation
Addresses consultation on workplace safety and health matters.
Section 11 – Workplace Disease Prevention
Covers precautions against contagious, occupational or infectious diseases at workplaces.
Section 12 – Workplace Registration and Approval
Addresses workplace registration and approval of sites, buildings and other constructions used as workplaces.
Section 13 – Accident and Incident Reporting
Covers notification and investigation of accidents, dangerous occurrences and occupational illnesses.
Sections 14 & 15 – Occupational Safety and Health Council
Provide for the establishment of the Punjab Occupational Safety and Health Council and its functions and powers.
Section 16 – Chief Inspector and Inspectors
Covers the appointment and qualifications of the Chief Inspector and Inspectors.
Section 19 – Offences and Penalties
Addresses offences and penalties under the Act.
Sections 20–22 – Legal Proceedings and Appeals
Cover cognizance of offences, trial of offences and appeals.
