Key Changes

Working Hours

Before

Up to 9 hours per day under Factories Act

After

Maximum 8 hours per day

Why it matters: Shorter standard workday with consent-based overtime

Contract Labour Threshold

Before

20 workers triggered applicability

After

50 workers trigger applicability

Why it matters: Smaller contractors exempt from compliance burden

Contract Labour in Core Activities

Before

Prohibition on core activities often litigated

After

Explicit prohibition with 3 defined exceptions

Why it matters: Clear legal framework for when contract labour can work in core activities

Work-Specific License

Before

Annual license for contractor

After

Work-specific license (can be for specific duration/project)

Why it matters: More flexible licensing for project-based work

Women Night Shift

Before

Prohibited in factories

After

Permitted with safety safeguards and consent

Why it matters: Greater employment opportunities for women

Inter-State Migrant Registration

Before

Employer-registered system

After

Self-declaration via Aadhaar, portable benefits

Why it matters: Simplified process with benefit portability

Journey Allowance for Migrants

Before

Not standardized

After

Annual journey allowance (not one-time)

Why it matters: Recurring benefit for migrant workers

Single Registration

Before

Multiple registrations under different laws

After

One registration for establishment under OSH Code

Why it matters: Simplified compliance - single window