The Tamil Nadu government recently introduced a bill to amend the Tamil Nadu Shops and Establishments Act of 1947. This bill focuses on the mandatory provision of seating facilities for employees in the workplace. The main objectives of this proposed change are to ensure better working conditions for staff and to address specific health issues that these workers may face due to continuous standing throughout their work hours.
The Proposed Amendment
As outlined in the latest amendment, Section 22-A, premises of every establishment are obligated to provide appropriate seating arrangements for all their employees. This will enable workers to take a seat whenever possible, thereby limiting the amount of time they spend on their feet.
Need for the Bill
Long-standing working patterns have proven detrimental to employees in shops and establishments. Continuous standing during work hours can lead to various health problems that affect the overall wellness and productivity of the workforce. This bill aims to protect the health and well-being of these workers by enforcing compulsory seating provisions in workplaces.
Significance of the Amendment
This amendment stands to benefit thousands of employees in both large-scale and small-scale establishments. Particularly, those employed in textile and jewellery showrooms stand to gain significantly. These sectors typically demand long-standing hours from their employees, which often leads to various health complications. Ensuring adequate seating arrangements can dramatically improve working conditions in these industries.
Similar Legislation in Other States
This isn’t the first time such legislation has been proposed. A couple of years ago, Kerala’s textile showroom employees staged a protest demanding their ‘Right to Sit.’ This prompted the Kerala government to amend its Kerala Shops and Establishments Act in 2018, making it mandatory for employers to provide seating facilities for their workers.
Way Forward: Right to Sit as a National Law
The ‘Right to Sit’ is a significant move towards upholding Article 42 of the Indian Constitution, a part of the Directive Principles of State Policy. This clause encourages states to establish just and humane conditions for workers. Encouraged by this constitutional mandate, the Parliament is urged to acknowledge the importance of incorporating the ‘Right to Sit’ as a national law. Implementing this amendment on a pan-India basis will ensure standard, just working conditions, safeguarding the health and well-being of workers in diverse industries across the country.
The recent bill tabled by the Tamil Nadu government marks a significant step towards better, healthier, and safer working conditions for all employees. By recognizing the ‘Right to Sit’ and making it mandatory across the nation, we can create an environment where the employee’s welfare is prioritized, productivity is enhanced, and overall worker satisfaction is improved.
