OSH Laws in Pakistan

Pakistan Chapter
OCCUPATIONAL HEALTH & SAFETY LAWS IN PAKISTAN
ZULEKHA SOORMA
Regulatory Chair 2022
ASSP Pakistan Chapter
KEY OBJECTIVES
• Formation of OSH laws post 18th Amendment - Sindh, KP,
Punjab and progress elsewhere
• Status at Federal level
• Progress after enactment of Acts
• Impediments in development of guidelines and progress
• Conflicts in existing laws and the news ones
• Inputs from participants for improvements from ASSP
platform
THE EIGHTEENTH AMENDMENT
• Prior to the 18th Amendment to the Constitution of Pakistan in 2010, the
legislative powers were distributed between the federal and provincial
governments through two 'lists' attached to the Constitution as Schedules.
The ‘Federal list’ covered the subjects over which the federal government
had exclusive legislative power, while the 'Concurrent List' contained subjects
regarding which both the federal and provincial governments could enact
laws.
• As a result of the 18th Amendment ,this subject is now in the exclusive
domain of the provincial government.
• The international obligations in the context of environment will be managed
by the ministry of climate change and those related to Labour are managed
under the Pakistan Code – Labour Laws
• Pakistan is signatory to the core ILO conventions – 155(1981) , 161(1985) ,
187(2000)
LABOUR LAWS
There are three categories of laws:
Firstly: the law that regulates the relations between employer and employee;
Secondly: those laws that provide for compulsory levies and
Thirdly: those that provide for minimum standards for employees;
They are as follows:
a. Labour Laws regulating the Relation of Employer and Employee
b. Labour Laws Assigning Levies;
c. Labour Laws Assigning Standards for Wages;
d. Labour Laws Setting Standards for Work Place ( these are the laws that
we shall be discussing)
OSH LAWS POST 18th AMENDMENT
SINDH
• SINDH FACTORIES ACT 2015 – RELATING TO OSH – CHAPTER III HEALTH & SAFETY
• SINDH FACTORIES RULES 2021
• SINDH OCCUPATIONAL SAFETY AND HEALTH ACT 2017 (not applicable to mines)
• SINDH OCCUPATIONAL SAFETY AND HEALTH RULES 2019
• SINDH COAL ACT 2013
• SINDH COAL MINES RULES 2016
• SINDH WORKERS COMPENSATION ACT 2015
PUNJAB
• PUNJAB FACTORIES (AMENDMENT) ACT 2012 - RELATING TO OSH – CHAPTER III HEALTH &
SAFETY (N.B. In the act, only amendments have been made in specified sections of the
Factories Act 1934 , all other sections of the Factories Act 1934 apply)
• PUNJAB FACTORIES RULES 1978
• PUNJAB OCCUPATIONAL SAFETY AND HEALTH ACT 2019
• PUNJAB MINING CONCESSION RULES 2002
• PUNJAB COAL MINES RESCUE RULES 1988
• PUNJAB SHOPS AND ESTABLISHMENTS ORDINANCE 1969
OSH LAWS POST 18th AMENDMENT
KHYBER PAKHTUNKHWA
• THE KHYBER PAKHTUNKHWA FACTORIES ACT 2013
• THE KHYBER PAKHTUNKHWA FACTORIES (AMENDMENT) ACT 2021 – wherein Section
5 is deleted
• THE KHYBER PAKHTUNKHWA OCCUPATIONAL SAFETY AND HEALTH ACT 2022
• THE KHYBER PAKHTUNKHWA MINES AND MINERALS ACT 2017
• KHYBER PAKHTUNKHWA MINES SAFETY INSPECTION AND REGULATION ACT 2020
BALOCHISTAN
• BALOCHISTAN FACTORIES ACT 2021
• THE REGULATION OF MINES AND OILFIELDS AND MINERAL DEVELOPMENT
• (GOVERNMENT CONTROL) AMENDMENT ACT, 2022 ACT, 2022
No OSH laws were found for Azad Kashmir and Gilgit- Baltistan
STATUS AT FEDERAL LEVEL
THE FOLLOWING ARE STILL IN USE
• BUILDING CODE OF PAKISTAN FIRE SAFETY REGULATIONS 2016 (mentioned in Sindh
OSH Rules 2019)
• PAKISTAN PENAL CODE 1860
• MINES ACT 1923
• CONSOLIDATED MINES RULES 1952
• COAL MINES REGULATIONS 1926
• METALLIFEROUS MINES REGULATIONS 1926
• BOILERS ACT 1923
• BOILER AND PRESSURE VESSELS ORDINANCE 2002
• PAKISTAN BOILERS RULES 2009
• REGULATION OF MINES AND OILFIELDS AND MINERAL DEVELOPMENT (GOVERNMENT
CONTROL) ACT, 1948 (AMENDED IN BALOCHISTAN)
• PETROLEUM ACT 1934/PETROLEUM RULES 1937
• WEST PAKISTAN FACTORIES CANTEEN RULES 1959
STATUS AT FEDERAL LEVEL
THE FOLLOWING ARE STILL IN USE
• THE EXPLOSIVE SUBSTANCES ACT 1908
• EXPLOSIVES ACT 1884
• GUIDELINES FOR HANDLING, STORAGE AND TRANSPORTATION OF HAZARDOUS GASES
MARCH 2011( Department of Explosives, Ministry of Industries and Production)
• (CHLORINE AND AMMONIA GASES)
• ELECTRICITY ACT 1910
• ELECTRICITY RULES 1937
• CIVIL DEFENCE RULES 1951
• GAS CYLINDER RULES 1940
• WEST PAKISTAN SHOPS AND ESTABLISHMENTS RULES 1969
• PETROLEUM ACT 1934
• TECHNICAL STANDARDS FOR DEPOTS FOR THE STORAGE OF PETROLEUM PRODUCTS
• TECHNICAL STANDARDS FOR TRANSPORTATION OF PETROLEUM PRODICTS
• MINERAL AND INDUSTRIAL GASES SAFETY RULES 2010
• TECHNICAL STANDARDS FOR OIL REFINERIES
SALIENT FEATURES OF THE SINDH OSH
RELATED ACTS/RULES
SINDH
• Sindh Factories Act 2015
o Section 10 - Notice to Inspector before commencement of work
o Section 11 - Registration and deregistration of factory
Chapter II – Inspecting Staff. Section 12 & 13 – Inspections
o Section 14, – Certifying Surgeons
Chapter III Health & Safety
o Section 15 – Cleanliness
o Section 16 – Disposal of Wastes and Effluents
o Section 17 – Ventilation and Temperature
o Section 18 – Dust and fume
o Section 19 – Artificial Humidification
o Section 20 – Overcrowding
o Section 21 - Lighting
RELATED ACTS/RULES
Sindh Factories Act 2015 (Contd..)
o Section 22 – Drinking Water
o Section 23 – Latrines and Urinals
o Section 24 – Spittoons
o Section 25 – Precautions against infectious diseases
o Section 26 – Compulsory Vaccination and Inoculation
o Section 27 – Provision of canteen
o Section 28 – Welfare Officer
o Section 29 – Precautions in case of fire
o Section 30 – Fencing of machinery
o Section 31 – Work on or near machinery in motion
o Section 32 – Employment of young persons on moving machinery
o Section 33 – Striking gear and devices for cutting off power
o Section 34 – Self acting machines
RELATED ACTS/RULES
o Section 35 – Casing of new machinery
o Section 36 – Employment of young persons on dangerous machines
o Section 37 – Cranes and other lifting machinery
o Section 38 – Hoists and Lifts
o Section 39 – Revolving machinery
o Section 40 – Pressure Plant
o Section 41 – Floors , Stairs and means of access
o Section 42 – Pits, sumps, opening in floors etc.
o Section 43 – Excessive weights
o Section 44 – Protection of eyes
o Section 45 – Powers to Require Specifications of Defective Parts or Tests
of Stability
o Section 46 – Safety of Building Machinery and Manufacturing Process
RELATED ACTS/RULES
o Section 48 – Precautions against dangerous fumes
o Section 49 – Explosive or Inflammable dust , gas etc.
o Section 50 – Power to exclude children
o Section 51 – Notice of certain accidents
o Section 52 – Appeals
o Section 53 – Additional Power to make rules
1) Health and safety rules relating to shelters during rest
2) rooms for children
3) Certificates of Stability
4) Hazardous Operations
RELATED ACTS/RULES
CHAPTER VIII SUPPLEMENTAL
Section 108 – Display of Notices
Section 114 – Repeals and savings
The Factories Act, 1934 (Act XXV of 1934), hereinafter referred to as the repealed Act, in its
application to the Province of Sindh, is hereby repealed.
RELATED ACTS/RULES
AMENDMENTS TO SINDH FACTORIES ACT 2015
THE SINDH FACTORIES (SECOND AMENDMENT) ACT ,2021
3.Amendment of Section 94 of Sindh Act No.XIII of 2016
In Secion 94, for the words “ten thousand rupees”, the words “two hundred thousand
rupees but not less than one hundred thousand rupees or with imprisonment of two
months but no less than fifteen days or with both” shall be substituted.
4. Insertion of section 94-A in Sindh Act No.XIII of 2016.
“94-A. Penalty for failure for getting the factory registered.
An occupier of a factory who fails to get registered his factory as required by section 11,
shall be punishable with a fine of five hundred thousand rupees but not less than two
hundred thousand rupees or with imprisonment of six months but no less than two
months days or with both.”.
SINDH FACTORIES RULES 2021
Rule #3 Notice before commencement of work Section 10 , sub section (1)
Notice as per Form A
Rule #4 : Registration and De – Registration of Factory
i. Notice of Occupation – Form A
ii. Certificate of Stability – Form K
iii. Copy of Layout of factory
iv. List of machinery
v. Copy of NIC of Occupier and the Manager
vi. Any other document required under the Act or Rules framed thereunder
INSPECTIONS – Section 12 & 13
Appointment of chief Inspector etc.
CERTIFYING SURGEONS & PERSONS AUTHORISED TO EXERCISE THE FUNCIONS OF
CERTIFYING SURGEONS – Section 14, 83 & 90
HEALTH AND SAFFETY - SECTION 15 & 16
Rule 19 – Register of lime washing – in Form F
Rule 20 – Premises to be kept free of debris and rubbish
Rule 21 – Maintenance of drains carrying wastewater
Rule 22 – building and outside premises to be kept clean
Rule 23 – Maintenance of all washing and bathing areas and areas where drinking
water is provided
VENTILATION, TEMPERATURE , DUST AND FUME AND ARTIFICIAL HUMIDICATION
SECTION 17, 18 & 19
Rule 24- openings for ventilation in the proportion of 5 sq. ft per person
Rule 25 – arrangements for protection of where where poisonous gases , dusts are
emitted during manufacturing process
Rule 26 – cotton mill slasher sizing and use of steam
Rule 27 – no artificial humidification in any room of cotton spinning or weaving factory
Table of dry and wet bulb readings
VENTILATION, TEMPERATURE , DUST AND FUME AND ARTIFICIAL HUMIDICATION
SECTION 17, 18 & 19 (continued)
Rule 28 – provision of hygrometers where artificial humidification is used in spinning and
weaving areas
Rule 29 – exemption from maintenance of hygrometer (form G) in case humidity levels
did not exceed limits during 12 months in weaving & spinning departments
Rule 30 – table to be fixed near hygrometer
Rule 31 – wet & dry bulb temperatures to be recorded in humidity register Form H
Rule 32 – Inspector to check the temperatures randomly
Rule 33 – Cooling power of atmosphere to be measured using Katha thermometer
Rule 36 – Hygrometer to be calibrated
Rule 40 – All ducts for introduction of humidified air to be kept clean
OVERCROWDING AND LIGHTING (SECTION 20,21 AND 37
Rule 41 – Particulars of each room to be recorded in Form I
Rule 42 – Adequate lighting to be provided in all passageways, stairs and all entrances
OVERCROWDING AND LIGHTING (SECTION 20,21 AND 37 (contd..)
Rule 41 – Particulars of each room to be recorded in Form I
Rule 41(1) – Lighting : Adequate lighting to be provided in all passageways, stairs and all
entrances
Rule 41 (2) – a) Artificial Lighting in interior of cotton ginning factories 60watts per 4 gins
b) train line shaft alley in ginning factory shall be adequately lighted
Rule 41 (3) – Government will notify standards for lighting for different kinds of work
Rule 41 (4) – Measures to be undertaken to prevent reflection of light from smooth
/polished surfaces into the eyes of worker
DRINKING WATER (SECTION 22)
Rule 42 – potable drinking water to be provided (1 gallon per day per person)
temperature of water not to exceed 90 degrees
drinking water to be tested to check fitness for drinking ( as per SEQS for
drinking water from government approved lab
PROVISION FOR WASHING ,ACCOMMODATION , LATRINES AND URINALS SECTION 23
Rule 43 – washing facilities to be provided and separate facilities for women to be
provided
Rule 44 - Latrines with flushes to be provided separately for men and women
Rule 45 – details of number of urinals and latrines according to the number of persons
urinals and latrines to be labeled – “Male” and ” Female”
walls to be lime washed at least twice a year as in Form F
The excreta to be disposed by incineration
SPITTOONS SECTION 24
Adequate number of spittoons to be provided (in pharma factories spittoons shall be
provided in changing rooms and lavatories
HYGIENE CARD AND COMPULSORY VACCINATION AND INOCCULATION SECTION 25 &
26
Rule 50 – (1) Every Factory shall provide to every worker Hygiene Card in Form F-1 with
following particulars:
a) Name of worker with parent’s name
b) CNIC No
c) Date of appointment
d) Designation and department
e) Card No.
f) Date of examination whether suffering from disease
g) Signature of Doctor
h) Signature or thumb impression of worker
(2) Fee: Rs. 20 per worker and bill borne by Occupier or Manager of factory
(3) Each worker shall be vaccinated and inoculated as under:
a) small pox – every 2 years
b) cholera and typhoid – every year
PRECAUTIONS AGAINST FIRE SECTION 29 (Contd..)
Rule 60 – Provision of exit stairs opening outside of building besides the stairs inside the
building
Rule 61 – Two flights of stairs to be provided for cotton ginning factories . The stairs to be of
fire resistant material
Rule 62 – Fire Alarm to be provided in every factory , in case fire alarm cannot be provided
then bell to be provided
FENCING – SECTION 30
Rules 63 to 72 Details of provision of fencing
Additional Fencing in Cotton Ginning Factories
Rule 73 & 74 – details of provision of fencing of cotton ginning equipment
Protection of persons attending to machinery and boilers
Rules 74 to 80 – regarding guarding of machinery
Rule 81 – disallows use of loose fitting garments while working on machines
Rule 82, 83 & 84 – regarding provision of means of access, guarding of gauges and
installation of safety valves /pressure gauges
CRANES AND OTHER LIFTING DEVICES SECTION 37
Rule 85: Maintenance of register of all lifting equipment indicating safe working load,
defects detected during inspections, repairs conducted, name & address of person carrying
out the
Examination with date and address and name of Factory Manager
PROTECTION OF EYES SECTION 44
Rule 86 :Protective goggles/shields be provided to all workers exposed to risks of eye
injuries
PROTECTION AGAINST DANGEROUS FUMES SECTION 48
Rule 87: Dimensions of manhole shall
i. In relation to rectangular manhole confined space not less than 18” long and 16” wide
& not less than 18” in diameter for circular or oval manhole
ii. in relation to tank wagons & other mobile plant not less than 18” and 16” wide for
rectangular manholes and 18” in diameter in case of circular manhole
ACCIDENTS SECTION 51
Rule 88: a) Notice of accidents resulting in death or such severe injury that the injured person would
not be able to return to work within next 48 hours shall be sent via fax, e mail or any other means
within 24 hours of the accident to the Chief Inspector for the area where the factory is located & the
Deputy Commissioner or to the Assistant Commissioner and
b) By registered post within 24 hours of the accident to the Commissioner appointed under the Sindh
Workers Compensation Act 2015
Rule 89: In case of accident resulting in death notice in the mode and within the time specified in
clause (a) shall be sent to officer in charge of the Police Station for the area where the factory is
situated
Rule 90: if notice of the accident is to be sent by messenger it shall be in Form J -1 (First Accident
Report). If sent via fax , email or telephone it shall be confirmed by a written report within 24 hours
of the occurrence of the accident
Rule 91: Notice of accidents of minor nature which prevent the injured person from returning to work
within 48 hours of the accident shall be given in Form J-1 within 24 hours to the Chief Inspector for
the area where the factory is located & the Deputy Commissioner or to the Assistant Commissioner
ACCIDENTS SECTION 51 (contd…)
Rule 92 : Final notice of the accident shall be submitted in Form J-II within 3 months from
the date of the accident the Chief Inspector for the area where the factory is located & the Deputy
Commissioner or to the Assistant Commissioner and to the Commissioner appointed under the
Sindh Workers Compensation Act 2015
Rule 93 : when an accident which has been reported to the Inspector as “Slight “ is afterwards
known to be “Serious” or “Fatal” the manager shall make the necessary correction in a
supplementary report which shall be sent to the authorities mentioned in Rule 89 & 90
Rule 94: (1) Inspector shall conduct an investigation on receiving notice he shall conduct an
investigation by himself or in cooperation with the police or an official deputed by the deputy
commissioner or with both
(2) In case the accident resulted due to neglect on part of the Manager or occupier prosecution shall
be filed
(3) If prosecution is carried out under Pakistan Penal Code , reference to the District Jude shall be
made for necessary action
(4) Payment of fines to the injured person as compensation
ACCIDENTS SECTION 51 (contd…)
Rule 95 : Where any explosion , fire , collapse of building or serious defects in machinery or
plant which might have caused or might cause injury to any person it shall be reported by the
Manager within 24 hours to the authorities mentioned in clause (a) of Rule 89
PROCEDURE IN APPEALS (SECTION 52)
PROVISION OF SHELTERS DURING REST, CERTIFICATE OF STABILITY AND FIRST AID SECTION 53
Rule 99: Shelter /rest rooms of height more than ten feet from floor, to be provided in factories
employing more than 100 workers which shall have adequate ventilation ; floor space of not
less than 6 sq.ft. per worker to be procured. This shall not be applicable where a canteen has
been provided
Rule 100: provision of suitable room for children of not less than 10 ft and having space not less
than 9 sq.ft. for each child in factories employees more than 30 women. Rooms to be
adequately lighted and ventilated. Rooms shall be kept clean and will be exclusively for the
women , their children and attendant. A trained nurse and a female servant shall be employed
during working hours of the factory.
OCCUPATIONAL HEALTH & SAFETY ACT 2017
This Act cites the Sindh Factories Act 2015, Mines Act 1923 and other relevant Occupational
Health & Safety Provisions .
Definitions
Chapter 1 : Preliminary (Objectives, Scope & Definitions)
Duties of employers, persons having control, self-employed, workers, volunteers, suppliers etc.
Chapter 2 : Provisions with respect to Safety & Health
Specific Health &Safety Rules & Regulations, Health &Safety representatives/Committee,
Consultation & Training, Safety & Health Officer, Written Health &Safety Policy, Hygiene card &
vaccination.
Chapter 3 : Enforcement
Approval of building & plant plan, registration of workplace, appointment & powers of
Inspectors, Notices, Appeals, Notices & Investigation of Accidents & Occupational Illness
Chapter 4 : OSH Council, Sindh
Functions of the Council, Meetings & quorum and Rules of Business
Chapter 5 : Offences and Penalties

List of violations and offences, forgery, prosecution process, burden of proof
Chapter 5 : Miscellaneous
Service and sending of documents, display at the establishment, limitation for records,
contraventions of law with dangerous results. Cognizance of offences. Limitation of
prosecution, collection of statistics
This Act does not cover those industries that fall under the Mines Act. It covers all workplaces .
Chapter I : Section 4: General Duties of Employer
1. Practical measures for Safety &Health and Welfare
2. Identify, assess and address existing & new hazards
3. Report and investigate incidents
4. Provide and apply Safe Systems of Work, Safe tools & equipment & appliances
5. Safe use, handling, storage, disposal and transport of materials and substances
6. Control physical, chemical, biological, ergonomic, psychosocial or other hazards, affecting
workers and others
7. Provide Information, Instruction and Training to ensure Safety &Health at work
8. Maintain workplace in safe, clean, orderly and risk free condition with safe means of access
9. Inform workers regarding work hazards, risks involved and preventive and protective
measures
10. Provide adequate PPE to prevent risk from injury and ill health
11. Maintain records of all accidents at workplace
12. Provide first aid arrangements and emergency provisions
13. Take measures to prevent fires & measures in the event of fire
14. Collaborate in the case of simultaneous operations or joint premises
Chapter I : Section 5: Practical measures for Safety &Health and Welfare
workers and others
8. Inform workers regarding work hazards, risks involved and preventive and protective
measures
9. Provide adequate PPE to prevent risk from injury and ill health
10. Maintain records of all accidents at workplace
11. Provide first aid arrangements and emergency provisions
12. Take measures to prevent fires & measures in the event of fire
13. Collaborate in the case of simultaneous operations or joint premises
Chapter I : Section 5: General duties of self-employed and employers to persons other than
their workers
1. The self employed and employers to ensure that work is conducted to prevent exposure
health and safety risks
2. All workers to be provided information on potential health & safety risks during work
activities
Chapter I : Section 6 : General duties of persons concerned with premises to persons other than
their workers
All non-workers who use the premises must be provided safe means of access and exit and
that they all measures provided to ensure risks to safety & health are addressed
Chapter I : Section 7 : General duty of persons in control of certain premises in relation to
harmful emissions into atmosphere
3. Persons who are responsible for any emissions to the atmosphere he must take all steps to
ensure that emissions to the atmosphere are controlled before they are emitted
4. Any substance prescribed to be harmful shall be deemed an obnoxious substance
Chapter I: Section 8 : General Duties of Worker and Volunteers
1. a) Ensure safety &health of others who may be affected by his acts & omissions & not
wilfully do anything to endanger himself or others
b) the worker & volunteer shall cooperate with the employer in the implementation of
requirements of the Act
c) Use & take care of PPE provided by the employer
d) Do not willfully interfere or misuse any appliance or equip or convenience provided for
safety &health of persons at workplace
2. Resolve any situation being unsafe posing immediate threat with the employer or cease work
until the dispute is resolved. Until the dispute is resolved, employer may assign the affected
workers some temporary alternative work.

3. Worker shall report any occupational accident, occupational Disease, dangerous
occurrences, or commuting accident as per company OSH Policy
Chapter I: Section 9 : General Duties of Suppliers as Regards Articles and Substances for Use at
Work
1. It shall be the duty of supplier who designs, manufactures, imports or supplies any article
for use at workplace to take specified steps sufficient to ensure :
i) Design & construction to be safe & without risk to safety & health
ii) Testing & examination
iii) Adequate information
iv) substance to be safe & without risk
2. It shall be the duty of supplier who designs, manufactures or supplies any tools, machinery,
equipment or substance for use at work, to ensure -
i) That machines, tools and equipment are safe and without risk of injury or health when
used
ii) That personnel using the equipment are provided with all information and training on its
handling and use
This includes handling, assembling , installing ,erecting and testing
CHAPTER II – PROVISIONS WITH REGARDS TO SAFETY AND HEALTH : Section 10
1. Government may make rules for the safety and health of workers in any establishment by
notification in official gazette.
2. The Rules may include the following matters:
a) Cleanliness and maintenance of building
b) Illumination, ventilation, temperature, noise, dust, fumes and artificial ventilation
c) Disposal of wastes and effluents
d) Floors, stairs, mean of access, proper working space, overcrowding, pits, sumps, opening in
floors, and allied things
e) Drinking water and conservancy
f) Guarding and fencing of machinery at work and work at on or near moving machinery
g) Self acting machines and device for cutting off power; revolving machinery and pressure
plants
h) Instruction, training and supervision in relation to employment on dangerous machines and
fencing or casing of machinery, wet floors, open wiring , safety fitting etc.
i) Explosives or inflammable dust, gas and precautions against dangerous fumes etc.
CHAPTER II – PROVISIONS WITH REGARDS TO SAFETY AND HEALTH (Section 10 Contd.. )
j) Precaution in case of fire
k) Personal protective equipment
l) Excessive weights
m) Loading and earth moving machinery
n) Cranes, hoists, lifts and other lifting operations
o) Scaffolding and work at heights
p) Safety of building, machinery and manufacturing process
SECTION 11 : WRITTEN STATEMENT OF POLICY
Every employer to whom this Act applies, except in such cases as may be prescribed by
Government, shall declare a written statement of a general policy with respect to the safety
and health of all persons at the workplace and such statement shall include provisions to
resolve disputes on safety at the workplace and the reporting procedure for fatalities, injuries
and near misses.
SECTION 11 : WRITTEN STATEMENT OF POLICY (Contd..)
The policy shall be reviewed and revised
when -
(a) introducing or altering the procedures for managing risk to safety; and
(b) changes that may affect safety, health or welfare are proposed to the premises where
persons work, to the systems or methods of work or to the plant or substances used for
work, but as a minimum at least every five years and to bring the statement and revisions of
it to the notice of all persons in the workplace in languages understood by all.
SECTION 12 : CONSULTATION
1. At every workplace the employer shall provide for the election of :
a) For establishments having less than 50 workers , election of health & safety representatives
who shall represent the workers in matters relating to safety, health & welfare at work and
may report any threats , accidents, fatal injuries to the inspector
b) For establishments having more than 49 workers , appoint a competent person to function
as Safety & Health Officer at workplace and set up an Occupational Health & Safety
Committee.
SECTION 12 : CONSULTATION (contd..)
2. It shall be the duty of the occupational safety and health representatives or the
Occupational safety and Health committee
• to cooperate and assist the employer to promote and develop measures to ensure the
safety, health and welfare of the workers at workplace.
• The committee shall report the effectiveness of such measures to the employer and the
Inspector, if so required.
SECTION 13 : TRAINING OF HEALTH AND SAFETY REPRESENTATIVE
The employer shall, at least once in two years, allow occupational safety and health
representative to attend health and safety training as approved by Government and shall bear
all expenses thereof including paid leave, course fee, lodging boarding, travelling etc.
SECTION 14: NON-INTEFERE OR MISUSE OF CERTAIN PROVISIONS
No person shall intentionally or recklessly interfere with or misuse anything provided in the
interests of health, safety or welfare in pursuance of any of the relevant statutory provisions.
SECTION 15: PRECAUTIONS AGAINST CONTAGIOUS OR INFECTIOUS DISEASE AT WORKPLACES.
1. Every worker shall be provided with “Hygiene Card” in which entries shall be made in January
and July after examination by qualified medical practitioner that the worker is not suffering
from any contagious, infectious and occupational disease. The fee shall be fixed by the
government and the employer to bear the expenses.
2. In case worker is found to be suffering from any contagious, infectious and occupational
disease the employer shall provide medical treatment with paid leave
SECTION 16 : COMPULSORY VACCINATION AND INOCULATION
Every worker shall be vaccinated and inoculated against the diseases at defined intervals and
expenses borne by the employer
CHAPTER III - ENFORCEMENT
SECTION 17 : Registration of workplaces and approval of site, buildings and other constructions
to be used as workplaces
1) Obtain approval from Government before start of construction at any site
2) Government or designated authority to ensure that all safety measures have been
undertaken and that the process conducted shall not be harmful to other people in the area
3) The employer shall, before start of the work, send a written notice to the Inspector of the
area as may be prescribed by rules.
Section 18 : Appointment of Inspectors
Section 19: Powers of Inspectors
Section 20: Notices
Section 21 : Appeal against improvement or prohibition notice
Section 22: Power to deal with causes of imminent danger
Section 23 : Notification and investigation of accidents, dangerous occurrences and
occupational illnesses
1) A register of accidents in the prescribed form to be maintained by every employer with
particulars relating to :
a) every accident that harmed or might have harmed any worker or any person in a place of
work controlled by the employer;

b) every hazard to which worker was exposed while at workplace in the employment of the
employer.
2) As above for every self - employed person
3) Every employer and self employed shall maintain a register and record therein any accident
occurs in a workplace which -
(a) causes loss of life; or
(b) disables any person from reporting to normal work for more than seven days;
(c) makes any person unconscious as a result of any action or process related to work;
occupational illnesses (contd..)
4) The employer and self-employed person shall report every accident in the prescribed form to
the Inspector within twenty four hours of the occurrence of the accident.
5) Where accident causing disablement or death is notified by the employer or self-employed
person, notice in writing of the death shall be sent to the Inspector by the employer or self-
employed person in control of the workplace within twenty four hours of the disability or
death comes to the knowledge of the employer or self-employed person controlling the
workplace.
6) Where an accident occurs in the workplace causing the death of any person at the
workplace, no person shall touch or disturb or cause any other person to touch or disturb,
without the permission of an Inspector, any machinery or any article which was involved in
such accident, other than for the purpose of extricating or attending on any person involved
in such accident.
occupational illnesses (contd..)
7) Where any illness occurs in a workplace which -
(a) is prescribed ; or
(b) leads to a loss of life of a person who was at the workplace ; or
(c) leads to an absence from normal work for more than seven continuous days and, is
considered to be related to the workplace; or
(d) causes sudden or simultaneous illness or loss of consciousness at that workplace;
written notice shall forthwith be sent by the employer or the manager to the Inspector of
the area where the workplace is located, in the form prescribed for the purpose
8) Where risks to safety & health exist due to the operations, the Inspector may require such
workers to undergo pre – employment and periodic medical examinations
9) The medical examination shall be conducted at government approved hospitals and
expenses borne by the employer
Section 24 : No Interference at Accident Scene
Where an accident occurs at workplace, no person shall, unless authorized to do so by an
Inspector, remove or in any way interfere with or disturb any wreckage, articles, substance or
thing related to the incident except to the extent necessary -
(a) to save the life of, prevent harm to, or relieve the suffering of, any person; or
(b) to maintain the access of the public to an essential service or utility; or
(c) to prevent serious damage to or loss of property.
Section 25: Power to direct formal investigation of incidents, accidents and cases of disease
Government may direct a formal investigation into any accident, occupational disease or any
other disease contracted at the workplace to determine the causes and may :
a) Appoint a competent person or persons possessing technical, legal or special knowledge to
act as Assessor for holding such investigations
b) The Assessor shall conduct an open investigation to determine the causes and circumstances
of the accident / disease in order to enable the court to make a report
Section 25 : Power to direct formal investigation of incidents, accidents and cases of disease
(contd.. )
c) the person appointed to hold any such inquiry shall have all the power of a Civil Court under
the Code of Civil Power to direct formal investigation of incidents, accidents and cases of
disease. Procedure, 1908 (V of 1908), for the purpose of enforcing the attendance of witnesses
and compelling the production of documents and material objects and every person required
by such person as aforesaid to furnish any information shall be deemed to be legally bound to
do so within the meaning of section 176 of the Pakistan Penal Code (XLV of 1860);
d) the Assessor shall make a report to the Government stating the causes and circumstances of
the incident, accident or case of disease and adding observations or suggestions which he
thinks fit to make;
e) A person holding inquiry under this section may exercise any or all the powers of an
inspector appointed under this Act for the purposes of inquiry
f) Government may cause the report of the Assessor to be made public
CHAPTER IV: OCCUPATIONAL SAFETY AND HEALTH COUNCIL SINDH
SECTION 26: Formation of OSH Council
Chairperson : Secretary Labour and Human Resources
5 Government Representatives from Industries Dept., Sindh Building Control Authority, Health
department, Sindh Environmental Protection Agency and Fire Department of Local Department
4 members to represent employers
4 members to represent workers
4 professionals as government may consider appropriate necessary and at least one of them
shall be a woman
3 members from civil society as government may consider necessary at least one of them shall
be a woman
An officer from the Directorate of Labour Sindh who shall also act as Secretary to the Council
SECTION 27: Functions of the Council
1) Council may perform following functions:
a) all matters relating to the act which the government may refer to the council
b) Review legislation and make recommendations for amendments , expansion , clarification
2) Without prejudice to the generality of the preceding provision, the Council may make
recommendations with regard to –
i) Formation and implementation of provincial policies with respect to OSH
ii) Facilitate cooperation between government, employers and workers
iii) Action if any which needs to be taken by the government in order to comply with
international conventions relating to safety, health & welfare at work
iv) Matters arising during performance
v) Compilation and publication of annual statistics of accidents, dangerous occurrences &
occupational diseases and measures undertaken with respect to Sindh OSH policy
vi) Training on OSH
vii) Studies and research to keep abreast of scientific knowledge pertaining to safety & health
SECTION 27: Functions of the Council
2) Without prejudice to the generality of the preceding provision, the Council may make
recommendations with regard to – (contd..)
viii) Any matter relating to gender issues and adolescent at workplace
ix) the development or content of codes of practice, standards and guidelines;
x) Advice on any other matter relevant to the occupational safety and health as may be referred
to the Council by Government
Section 28 : Meetings and quorum of the Council
1) Council shall meet once in every 4 months
2) Nine members of the Council shall form a quorum for any meeting of the Council of whom
at least -
(i) Five official members;
(ii) two representatives of employers;
(iii) two representative of workers; and
(iv) one professional or member of civil society.
Section 28 : Meetings and quorum of the Council (Contd..)
3) Council may regulate its own procedure regarding to meetings and transaction of business
4) The Council may appoint committees or sub-committees as it deems fit, to exercise such
powers and perform such duties or discharge such functions as may, subject to such conditions,
if any, as the Council may impose
CHAPTER VI : MISCELLANEOUS
Section 44: Transitional provisions
Section 45 : Limitation
Section 46 : Amendment in schedules
Section 47: Removal of difficulties
Section 48: Indemnity
SCHEDULE
SCHEDULE
SCHEDULE
30 Refusal to a lawful order of an inspector to produce records under this Act
30 Failure to maintain records and falsification of records mandatory under this Act
30 Failure to display the abstracts of this Act in workplaces
30 Failure to give notice of accidents
30 Failure to furnish returns under this Act
30 smoking in the presence of inflammable material or using a naked light in the presence of
inflammable, material without following the regulations described in this behalf
30 violation of provisions relating to the employment of children;
Fine of up to Rs.50,000/- for each of the offences stated above
SINDH OCCUPATIONAL HEALTH & SAFETY RULES 2019
2 DEFINITIONS
3. GENERAL DUTIES OF EMPLOYER
The employer shall, in addition to the general duties mentioned under section 4, comply with
any additional duties assigned by Government, from time to time, and to follow and enforce
the regulations, standards, guidelines and code of practices laid down by Government.
Section 4: General Duties of Employer
1. Practical measures for Safety &Health and Welfare
workers and others
4. General duties of self-employed and employers to persons other than
their workers under Section 5.
A self-employed person is an individual engaged in an occupation, but not in the service of an
employer and shall -
(a) determine the responsibilities in relation to the health and safety of all workers at the
workplace;
(b) cooperate with the employer, contractor, sub-contractors, other self-employed persons, and
occupational health committees in protecting the health and safety at the workplace;
(c) conduct work in a way which does not endanger anyone’s health and safety at the
workplace;
(d) provide information which may affect the health and safety of others to the employer,
contractor, subcontractors, other self-employed persons and occupational safety and health
committees established;
(e) follow and enforce the regulations, standards, guidelines and code of practices laid down by
such authority.
5. General duties of persons concerned with premises to persons other
than their workers under Section 6
Where a person who uses non-domestic premises as a workplace by virtue of any contract or
tenancy or an obligation of any extent in relation to the maintenance or repair of any premises
to which this rule applies or any means of access thereto or egress therefrom or the safety of
or the absence of risks to health arising from plant or substances in any such premises
6. General duties of worker and volunteer under Section 8.

The workers and volunteer at the work place shall, in addition to the general duties mentioned
under section 8, comply with any additional duties assigned by Government, from time to time,
and shall follow and enforce the regulations, standards, guidelines and code of practices laid
down by Government.
7. General duties of supplier as regards articles and substances for use
at work under section 9.
A supplier in addition to his duties as mentioned in section 9 shall -
(a) supply plant at workplace, site or equipment, in a safe condition;
(b) supply chemical and biological substances that are safe when instructions are followed
correctly;
(c) provide MSDS (Material Safety Data Sheets) of chemicals and biological substances supplied;
and
(d) provide written instructions about how to use equipment safely
8. SAFFETY AND HEALTH (SECTION 10)
(A) CLEANLINESS IN THE PLACE OF WORK AND ITS FREEDOM FROM NUISANCE, AND
MAINTENANCE OF BUILDINGS.
• No accumulation of debris which may cause overflow inside the premises
• Drains shall be constructed in masonry and connected to an identified drainage line
• The compound and floors of the premises to be maintained in clean condition
• All washrooms and bathing areas to be kept clean
• Drinking water areas to be maintained and kept clean
(B) ILLUMINATION, VENTILATION, TEMPERATURE, NOISE, DUST, FUME AND ARTIFICIAL
HUMIDIFICATION.
ILLUMINATION
• Provision of adequate lighting – natural or artificial commensurate with the nature of job as
per standards laid down by the Government
• Prevention of glare
• Regular cleaning of skylights and windows
• Minimum of 120 Lux (12 ft candles) to be provided for yards, roadways and outside
thouroughfares
• Minimum of 150 Lux (15 ft candles shall be provided
HUMIDIFICATION.
NOISE
Noise levels at workplace shall be maintained as per the prescribed Standards to prevent
adverse effects on hearing and understanding work instructions (OSHA Standards)
In case of high noise , adequate hearing protection to be provided
Noise levels – continuous or impact/impulse shall be identified
Exposure to impact noise shall not exceed 140 decibels
VENTILATION
In every room of a factory or workplace ventilating opening shall be provided in the proportion
of five square feet for each person required or permitted to work in such room and the
openings shall be such as to admit a continuous supply of fresh air
HUMIDIFICATION.
VENTILATION (CONTD..)
In every factory or workplace where injurious, poisonous or asphyxiating gases, dust or other
impurities are used for or are evolved from any process carried on in such a factory or
workplace, all practicable measures to the satisfaction of Inspector shall be taken to protect
the workers against the inhalation of such gases, dust or other impurities in accordance with
the standards prescribed by Government
In every room in a cotton mill where slasher sizing is carried out, efficient arrangements for
the removal of the steam given off in the process of drying the yarn shall be fitted and slasher
sizing shall not be carried on in any room where any other process of manufacture is being
performed.
HUMIDIFICATION.
• There shall be no artificial humidification in any room or department of a cotton spinning
or weaving factory or workplace by the use of steam during any period when the dry bulb
temperature of the room exceeds 85 degrees Fahrenheit scale
• At any time when the wet bulb reading of the hygrometer in that room is higher than that
specified in the given table in relation to the dry bulb reading of the hygrometer at that
time, or as regards a dry bulb reading intermediate between any two dry bulbs readings
indicated consecutively in the table, when that dry bulb reading does not exceed the wet
bulb reading to the extent indicated in relation to the lower of the two dry bulb readings in
degree Fahrenheit scale.
• In all departments of cotton spinning and weaving mills in which artificial, humidification is
employed, hygrometer shall be provided and maintained in such position as may be
approved by the Inspector.
HUMIDIFICATION.
• Weaving department: 2 hygrometers for departments with less than 500 looms and one
additional hygrometer for every 500 looms or in excess of 500 looms
• Other Departments: One hygrometer for each room of less than 3,00,000 cubic feet capacity
and one extra hygrometer for each 2,00,000 cubic feet, or part thereof in excess of 3,00,000
cubic feet
• One hygrometer shall be provided and maintained outside each cotton spinning and weaving
mill wherein artificial humidification is adopted in a position approved by the Inspector, for
taking true shade temperatures
• Copy of Table to fixed near hygrometer
• Humidity register shall be maintained
• The thermometers and hygrometers shall be calibrated
• In case steam is used for artificial humidification, the pipes shall be of 1” diameter and
insulated
• The ducts shall be kept clean at all times
(C) DISPOSAL OF WASTES AND EFFLUENTS
• Effective arrangements for the disposal of wastes from manufacturing process to be
ensured
• Every factory shall maintain a register in the prescribed Form B regarding dates on which
lime washing , painting and varnishing is carried out
• No rubbish, filth or debris shall be allowed to accumulate or to remain in any part of a
factory or workplace in such position that effluvia therefrom can arise within the factory or
workplace
• In every factory or workplace, all drains carrying waste or sludge water shall be constructed
in masonry or other impermeable material and shall be regularly flushed at least once a
day and where possible connected with some recognized drainage line
(C )DISPOSAL OF WASTES AND EFFLUENTS (Contd..)
• The floor of the rooms and the compound surrounding every factory or workplace shall be
maintained in a strictly and clean condition
• Proper arrangements shall be made for maintaining all washing and bathing places within a
factory or workplace, the places where drinking water is distributed to the employees of
the factory or workplace and the area around such places in clean and drained condition
D FLOOR, STAIRS, MEANS OF ACCESS, PROPER WORKING SPACE, OVERCROWDING, CONFINED

SPACES, PITS, SUMPS, OPENING IN FLOORS AND ALLIED THINGS
The particulars of each room of the factory or workplace, in which workers are regularly
employed shall be entered in Form “C” which shall be shown to the Inspector when required
(D) FLOOR, STAIRS, MEANS OF ACCESS, PROPER WORKING SPACE, OVERCROWDING,
CONFINED SPACES, PITS, SUMPS, OPENING IN FLOORS AND ALLIED THINGS (Contd..)
Adequate lighting is to be provided at the workplace – in rooms, passages, latrines, hoists,
outside areas, entrances to ensure safety during movement at working hours
A minimum of 120 lux (12-foot candles) shall be provided for yards, roadways and outside
thoroughfares
A minimum of 150 lux (15-foot candles) shall be provided:
Artificial Lighting in Cotton Ginning Factories:
a) 1 Electric lamp of 60 watt per 4 gins
b) The train line shaft alley in Ginning Factory/ workplace shall be sufficiently lighted at all
times for a worker to carry on his duties inside it without the aid of lantern
c) Adequate measures to be undertaken to prevent eye strain because of glare or risk of
accident to employees
d) Arrangements to be made by provision of suitable screening or any other means to prevent
discomfort or injury to eyes of workers by reflection of light from smooth or polished surfaces
(E) DRINKING WATER AND CONSERVANCY
• A supply of drinking water which complies with the drinking water standards shall be made
available to all employees at factory or workplace . One gallon of drinking water per employee
shall be provided
• The supply of water shall be derived from any public water-supply or wells including tube-
wells, or tanks so situated, constructed and protected as not to be polluted or contaminated
with organic or other impurities.
• A well for the supply of drinking water to a factory or workplace or for the purpose of
humidification in a factory or workplace –
(i) shall not be constructed or located within fifty feet of any latrine ,drain or other source
liable to pollute the water in the well;
(ii) shall be entirely closed and covered;
(iii) shall be fitted with a reliable pump; and
(iv) shall be provided with a dust and water proof trap door having an opening not exceeding
four square feet, and such trap door shall be kept locked and only opened for cleaning or
inspection.
(E) DRINKING WATER AND CONSERVANCY (Contd..)
• The water provided shall be kept in clean and suitable vessels shall be renewed daily and all
practicable steps shall be taken to preserve the water and the vessels in which it is
contained from contamination
• The temperature of the drinking water supplied to workmen shall at no time exceed 90
degrees in Fahrenheit scale
• The inspector may ask employer to provide certificate of test of the drinking water for its
fitness for use tested by certified laboratories
• The inspector may obtain a sample of the drinking water and instruct the employer to
obtain a test report from certified lab regarding its fitness for use as drinking water
(F) GUARDING AND FENCING OF THE MACHINERY AND WORK AT OR NEAR MACHINERY IN
MOTION
1. The following parts of transmission machinery shall be securely fenced if in motion and
within reach of workers and such other volunteer persons authorized by the employer:-
(i) All shafts, couplings, collars, clutches, toothed wheels, gears, pulley driving straps, chains
and ropes
(ii) All projecting set screws, keys, nuts or bolts on revolving parts,
(iii) The underside of all heavy overhead main driving belts or ropes if there is any probability
of persons having to pass under them.
2. Machine tools
(i) The back gears and change wheels of lathes;
(ii) The back gear, bit and level gearing of drilling machines; and
(iii) The gear wheels of planning, shaping, slotting and milling machines which are within
reach of workers
(F )GUARDING AND FENCING OF THE MACHINERY AND WORK AT OR NEAR MACHINERY IN
MOTION
3. Every platen machine and guillotine cutting machine in a printing work shall be fitted with
an efficient finger-guard
4. All emery wheels and tool grinding machines shall be fitted with strong iron hood guards
and shall also have a plate glass shield so fitted as to prevent flying particles from entering
into the operator’s eyes
5. All hoist gates shall be self-locking and only capable of being opened when the case is
opposite the floor
6. All circular saws of more than six inches in diameter shall be provided with a strong metal
hood guard a riving knife at the back of the saw. The saw under the table shall be completely
guarded
7. All band saws shall be fitted with expanded metal cage guards enclosing the upper half of
the machine. The saw under the table shall also be completely guarded
(F) GUARDING AND FENCING OF THE MACHINERY AND WORK AT OR NEAR MACHINERY IN
MOTION
8. All elevator passage ways and hoist ways shall be fenced
9. In every factory or workplace, all electrical circuits or part of such circuits or any object
electrically connected with them whether commonly or occasionally in an electrified
condition, which by reason of their position could cause injury to any person, shall be
protected adequately, either by non-metallic fencing or insulation or by both, in such manner
as to remove danger of injury:
Provided that where switch gear is installed for the purpose of immediately removing the
pressure on the occurrence of a fault, such mechanism shall be taken into account when
considering the adequacy or otherwise of the protection furnished:
Provided further that in no case shall any conditions or combinations of conditions, which are
subject to objection under any other enactment be accepted as adequate
(F )GUARDING AND FENCING OF THE MACHINERY AND WORK AT OR NEAR MACHINERY IN
MOTION
10. Instructions both in English, Urdu and the Vernacular of the district for the restoration of
persons suffering from electric shock shall be affixed in a conspicuous place in every factory or
workplace using electric energy for lighting or power purposes
11. Fencing Pit.- All open tanks and vessels containing either chemicals or substances
dangerous to human life or safety and all pits, tanks, gutters and excavations eighteen inches
or more in depth within the precincts of any factory or workplace and workplace shall be
securely fenced.
12 Fencing in Textile and otherwise. In addition to the provisions hereinafter provided, the
following provisions shall apply to textile factories to the extent indicated:-
(G) SELF-ACTING MACHINES AND DEVICE FOR CUTTING OFF POWER; REVOLVING MACHINERY
AND PRESSURE PLANTS:
(1) The employer in the factory or workplace shall have the duty to ensure that every flywheel
directly connected to a prime mover and every moving part of a prime mover, other than the
prime is securely fenced.
(2) Every head and tailrace of water wheels, turbines and every part of electric generators,
motor or rotary converter, fly wheels or transmission machinery are securely fenced unless
they are safe by position or construction
(3)Every dangerous part of all other machinery other than specified under the “Act” or
“Rules” shall be securely fenced unless they are position or construction
(4) The requirement of Rule 82 shall be deemed to have been complied with if a device is
provided which in the opinion of the Chief Occupational Safety and Health Inspector
satisfactorily protects the operator from coming into contact with that part
(G) SELF-ACTING MACHINES AND DEVICE FOR CUTTING OFF POWER; REVOLVING MACHINERY
AND PRESSURE PLANTS:
(5) Protection of Lathe machines
(6) Emergency stop switch
(7) Location of emergency stop switch
(8) Driving belts protection
(9) Provision of striking gear
(10) In determining whether any part of a machinery is safe by position or by construction to
persons employed in the premises:
a) Lubrication work on machinery in motion
b) Lubrication necessary during moving machinery
c) Use of close fitting overall while working on machinery in motion
d) Training of workers carrying out tasks
e) Fixing of machinery
f) Maintenance of guarding
(10) In determining whether any part of a machinery is safe by position or by construction to
persons employed in the premises: (contd..)
(g) Cleaning while machinery is in motion
(h) It shall be the responsibility of the employer to ensure that
(i) all exposed workers are instructed on the hazards prevailing in their workplace;
(ii) safety measures are taken to avoid injury; and
(iii) training is provided at least once in every two years
(i) The Chief Occupational Safety and Health Inspector shall, subject to the general direction of
Government undertake or promote studies and research to identify hazards in the working
environment and develop innovative ways of dealing with occupational safety and health
problems
(H) INSTRUCTIONS, TRAINING AND SUPERVISION IN RELATION TO EMPLOYMENT ON DANGEROUS
MACHINE AND FENCING OR CASING OF MACHINERY; WET FLOORS, OPEN WIRING, SAFETY
ESCAPES, EMERGENCY EXITS, SAFE ELECTRIC WIRING AND FITTING ETC
Government shall issue separately the guidelines, regulations and code of practices, containing
the instructions training and supervision in relation to employment on dangerous machines and
fencing or casing of machinery, wet floors, open wiring, safety escapes, emergency exits, safe
electric wiring and fitting and such other hazards.
(I) EXPLOSIVES OR INFLAMMABLE DUST, GAS AND PRECAUTION AGAINST DANGEROUS FUMES ETC
The minimum dimensions of the manhole shall be –

(i) in relation to the confined space be not less than eighteen inches long and sixteen inches wide
in case of a rectangular manhole and not less than eighteen inches in diameter in case of a
circular or
oval manhole;
(ii) in relation to tank wagons and other mobile plant not less than eighteen inches long and
sixteen inches wide in case of rectangular manhole and eighteen inches in diameter in case of
(J) PRECAUTIONS IN CASE OF FIRE
(1) Every factory or workplace shall be provided with:
a) Sufficient supply of water maintained at sufficient pressure as per prescribed standards
b) Buckets and chemical fire extinguishers :
(i) Buckets. (a) For floor space up 6000 square feet, six buckets for every 1000 square feet of
floor or a part thereof, one additional bucket in excess of the first 6000 square feet;
(b) The buckets shall be painted red and kept permanently on stands filled with water or sand
at the discretion of the employer
(ii) Fire Extinguishers
(a) Chemical fire extinguishers of at least two gallons capacity of soda compressed carbon
dioxide type.
(b) For floor space up to 6000 square feet, one extinguisher (c) For every 6000 square feet of
floor, one additional extinguisher for space in excess of the first 6000 square feet
(2) Provision of chemical fire extinguisher and buckets in each storey
(3) All fire extinguishing equipment to be maintained and checked monthly
(4) Provision of alternate fire escape stairs in case of buildings having more than one storey
(5) Same as above for cotton ginning factories
(6) Installation of fire alarm or bell
(7) All fire safety measures for the building shall comply with building codes of Pakistan, Fire
Safety Provisions 2016 in the following areas:
(i) general requirements;
(ii) classification of occupancy;
(iii)general safety requirements;
(iv)building services;
(v) fire safety construction features;
(vi)fire protection system
vii) Means of egress
(viii) safeguarding construction, alteration and demolition operation;
(ix) fire department access and water supply;
(x) combustible waste and refuse; and
(xi) occupancy fire safety (New as this is not included in Sindh Factories Act 2015
and Sindh Factories Rules 2021)
(K) PERSONAL PROTECTIVE EQUIPMENT
(1) Safe use of respirators and training to use them
(2) Provision of standby and rescue equipment during confined space work
(3) Standby to be provided for personnel using SCBA in oxygen deficient atmospheres
(4) Program for maintenance and care of respirators in accordance with type of plant, working
conditions and hazards and also include selection and provision of :
hard hats, various types of gloves required for particular works, safety harness , scaffolding,
life lines in confined space entry. Specifications for safety belts, anchors, lifelines, safey nets,
safety shoes
(L) EXCESSIVE WEIGHTS
The excessive weights shall be regulated as per the code of practices or standards laid down by the
Government.
(M) LOADING AND UNLOADING MACHINERY
(1) Safe Systems of work to be established and implemented during loading & unloading
machinery
(2) Safe systems of work to include:
(i) Risk Assessment (ix) written procedures for operations of machinery
(ii) Planning the operation (x) Emergency preparedness and rescue equipment
(iii) Maintenance (xi) Checklists for safe operation, inspection , testing
(iv) certified and trained operators and examination of the equipment
(v) supervision of operations
(vi) Preventing unauthorized entry
(vii) Identification of unsafe conditions and special environments
(viii) identification of persons supervising the operations
(3) Procedure in local language and to be provided to all those involved in the operations
(N) CRANES, HOIST, LIFTS AND OTHER LIFTING OPERATIONS:
(1) Every hoist or lift shall be made of safe civil and mechanical construction, good material and
adequate strength and shall be properly maintained
(2) (2) Every hoist, lift or any other lifting machine shall be thoroughly examined every three
months by a person authorised by the Chief Occupational Safety and Health Inspector. A
register shall be maintained for every examination of a lifting machine containing the defined
particulars ( No notification regarding this??)
(O) SCAFFOLDING AND WORK AT HEIGHT
The scaffolding and work at height shall be regulated as per the code of practices or standards laid
down by the Government. (Not issued??)
(P) SAFETY OF BUILDING, MACHINERY AND MANUFACTURING PROCESS:
The safety of building, machinery and manufacturing process shall be regulated as per the code of
practices or standards laid down by the Government (Not issued??)
(Q) WRITTEN STATEMENT OF POLICY
The policy statement as provided in section 11 of the Act should provide a clear indication of the
company’s objectives and plans for occupational health and safety and may cover identified issues
(R) CONSULTATION: SAFETY AND HEALTH REPRESENTATIVE
Details for election of Safety & Health Representative provided
(S) SAFETY AND HEALTH OFFICER
(1)One full time Safety & Health Officer for every 500 workers and one additional Safety & Health
Officer for additional 500 workers
(2)Officer to be a graduate engineer registered with PEC with 10 years experience
(3) Terms and conditions of employment
(4) Duties of Safety & Health Officer:
(a) act as employers representative and ensure hazard free and workplace and address unsafe
practices
(b) act in an advisory capacity on all matters pertaining to safety and health for the guidance of
the employer and the workers
(c) independent investigation and reporting of accident to employer
(d) Coordinate all Health & Safety programs at site
(e) Maintenance of the accident reporting system
(f) Assist the government agencies in conducting inspections or investigation of accidents
(T) SAFETY AND HEALTH COMMITTEE
(1) Committee to be established and consult with the committee for the purpose of initiating,
developing, promoting, maintaining and reviewing measures to ensure the safety and health of his
employees at work
(2) Details of members of committee- representation of women
(3) Meetings to be held once every 3 months
(4) Inspector may issue notice of meeting of the committee
(5) (6) (7) (8) & (9) – Workings of the committee and liaison with Inspectors
(U) TRAINING OF SAFETY & HEALTH REPRESENTATIVE SECTION 13
The training of safety and health representative shall be regulated as per the prescribed code of
practices and standards or guidelines laid down by Government
(V) PRECAUTIONS AGAINST CONTAGIOUS, INFECTIOUS AND OCCUPATIONAL DISEASES AT
WORKPLACES (SECTION 15)
(1)Provision of Hygiene Card (2) Examination by Certifying Surgeon on biannual basis (3) Expenses to be
borne by employer (4) record to be maintained (5) Monthly report to Chief Inspector by Certifying
Surgeon (6) In case reports found unsatisfactory matter to be reported to Chief Inspector (7) action to be
taken by Chief Inspector
(W) COMPULSORY VACCINATION AND INOCULATION (SECTION 16)
(1) All workers to be vaccinated /inoculated against contagious or infectious diseases
(2) & (3) Vaccination to be arranged and costs borne by the employer
(4) Vaccination & inoculation regulated by the by the Regulations, Standards, Guidelines and Code of Practices as
laid down by the Government
(X) REGISTRATION OF WORKPLACES AND APPROVAL OF SITE, BUILDINGS AND OTHER CONSTRUCTIONS TO BE
USED AS WORKPLACES. (SECTION 17)
(1) & (2) Owner /Occupier to register factory or workplace under the Act and Rules
(3) Application to be accompanied by specified forms and requisite documents
(8) Application in case of change of owner /occupier or in case premises are shut down
(9) & (10) submission of drawings
(14) Provisions for fire safety/emergency
(15) Provision of safety signage
(16) Maintenance of good housekeeping
(17) (18) & (19) strength of construction to withstand any adverse conditions
(20) Plans for new construction to be submitted and approved (same is mentioned in Sindh Factories
Act 2015 and Sindh Factories Rules 2021 ?? Different forms??)
(W) COMPULSORY VACCINATION AND INOCULATION (SECTION 16)
(1) All workers to be vaccinated /inoculated against contagious or infectious diseases
(2) & (3) Vaccination to be arranged and costs borne by the employer
(4) Vaccination & inoculation regulated by the by the Regulations, Standards, Guidelines and Code of
Practices as laid down by the Government
(X) REGISTRATION OF WORKPLACES AND APPROVAL OF SITE, BUILDINGS AND OTHER CONSTRUCTIONS
TO BE USED AS WORKPLACES. (SECTION 17) Ref. Sindh factories Act 2015 & Sindh Factories Rules 2021)
(1) & (2) Owner /Occupier to register factory or workplace under the Act and Rules
(3) Application to be accompanied by specified forms and requisite documents
(8) Application in case of change of owner /occupier or in case premises are shut down
(9) & (10) submission of drawings
(14) Provisions for fire safety/emergency
(15) Provision of safety signage
(16) Maintenance of good housekeeping
(17) (18) & (19) strength of construction to withstand any adverse conditions
(20) Plans for new construction to be submitted and approved
APPOINTMENT OF INSPECTORS (Section 18)
The Inspectors so appointed under the Act shall possesses professional degree in
Mechanical, Electrical, Civil or Chemical technology from any recognized University and
registered with Pakistan Engineering Council (PEC) or a MBBS Doctor registered with PMDC
PUNJAB FACTORIES (AMENDMENT) ACT 2012
The act only outlines amendments made in the Factories Act 1934 otherwise the entire
Factories Act 1934 remains same
PUNJAB FACTORIES RULES 1978

The Factories Rules 1978 are based on Factories Act 1934 and not much difference is present
No new amendments have been made
PUNJAB OCCUPATIONAL HEALTH & SAFETY ACT 2019

The Punjab Occupational Health & Safety Act 2019 is the same as the Sindh OSH Act 2017
The Punjab OSH Rules have not been issued
BALOCHISTAN FACTORIES ACT 2021

The act is the same as the Sindh Factories Act 2015. Rules have not been issued
KHYBER PAKHTUNKHWA FACTORIES ACT 2013
Same as the Sindh Factories Act 2015
KHYBER PAKHTUNKHWA FACTORIES AMENDMENT

ACT 2021
Act amended to delete Section 5
KHYBER PAKHTUNKHWA OCCUPATIONAL HEALTH &

SAFETY ACT 2022
The Act is same as the Sindh and Punjab OSH Acts

OSH Laws in Pakistan

Uploaded by

Document Information

Original Description:

Original Title

Copyright

Available Formats

Share this document

Share or Embed Document

Sharing Options

Did you find this document useful?

Is this content inappropriate?

Copyright:

Available Formats

OSH Laws in Pakistan

Uploaded by

Copyright:

Available Formats

Pakistan Chapter

OCCUPATIONAL HEALTH & SAFETY LAWS IN PAKISTAN

Chapter 5 : Offences and Penalties

workers some temporary alternative work.

work controlled by the employer;

6. General duties of worker and volunteer under Section 8.

D FLOOR, STAIRS, MEANS OF ACCESS, PROPER WORKING SPACE, OVERCROWDING, CONFINED

The minimum dimensions of the manhole shall be –

PUNJAB FACTORIES RULES 1978

PUNJAB OCCUPATIONAL HEALTH & SAFETY ACT 2019

BALOCHISTAN FACTORIES ACT 2021

KHYBER PAKHTUNKHWA FACTORIES AMENDMENT

KHYBER PAKHTUNKHWA OCCUPATIONAL HEALTH &

You might also like