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