A Comprehensive Note on Labour Laws of Pakistan
Pakistan has a set of comprehensive labour laws that are designed to protect the rights of workers and regulate the relationship between employers and employees. These laws apply to all individuals employed in Pakistan, regardless of their gender, religion, or nationality. In this article, we will provide an overview of the major labour laws in Pakistan and the key provisions that workers and employers should be aware of.
Industrial Relations Ordinance, 2002
The Industrial Relations Ordinance, 2002 provides a legal framework for the formation of trade unions and collective bargaining. It also outlines the rights and obligations of employers and employees in matters relating to industrial relations. The ordinance defines unfair labour practices and outlines the procedures for resolving disputes between employers and employees.
The Factories Act, 1934
The Factories Act, 1934 is aimed at regulating working conditions in factories. The act provides for the registration of factories, the health and safety of workers, and the regulation of working hours, overtime, and leave entitlements. The act also outlines the procedures for the inspection of factories and the enforcement of its provisions.
The Minimum Wages Ordinance, 1961
The Minimum Wages Ordinance, 1961 is designed to ensure that workers receive fair wages. The ordinance sets minimum wage rates for different categories of workers and stipulates that employers must pay their workers at least the minimum wage rate. It also outlines the procedures for the payment of wages, overtime, and deductions from wages.
The Payment of Wages Act, 1936
The Payment of Wages Act, 1936 provides for the payment of wages to workers in a timely and efficient manner. The act outlines the procedures for the payment of wages, the timing of payments, and the deduction of wages. It also provides for the maintenance of records relating to the payment of wages.
The Workers' Compensation Act, 1923
The Workers' Compensation Act, 1923 is designed to provide compensation to workers who suffer injuries or disabilities as a result of their work. The act provides for the payment of compensation to workers who are injured or disabled in the course of their employment, and outlines the procedures for making claims and determining compensation amounts.
The Employment of Children Act, 1991
The Employment of Children Act, 1991 prohibits the employment of children under the age of 14. The act outlines the penalties for employers who violate this provision and provides for the rehabilitation of child workers.
The Provincial Employees Social Security Ordinance, 1965
The Provincial Employees Social Security Ordinance, 1965 is designed to provide social security benefits to workers in the event of injury, disability, or death. The ordinance provides for the establishment of social security institutions, the collection of contributions, and the payment of benefits.
Conclusion:
In conclusion, Pakistan has a comprehensive set of labour laws that are designed to protect the rights of workers and regulate the relationship between employers and employees. It is important for workers and employers to be aware of these laws and comply with their provisions to ensure a fair and safe working environment for all