Which Act Governs labour safety and welfare in construction projects in India?
- AThe Factories Act, 1948
- BThe Mines Act, 1952
- CThe Building and Other Construction Workers (BOCW) Act, 1996Correct
- DThe Workmen’s Compensation Act, 1923
Solution
Concept
Statutory regulations for worker safety and welfare in the Indian construction sector.
Step-by-step solution
1. Identify the primary sectors addressed by each act. 2. The Factories Act, 1948 applies to manufacturing factories. 3. The Mines Act, 1952 applies to mining operations. 4. The Workmen's Compensation Act, 1923 (now Employee's Compensation Act) deals with compensation for occupational injuries. 5. The Building and Other Construction Workers (BOCW) Act, 1996 specifically governs safety, health, and welfare in construction and building works.
Explanation
The Building and Other Construction Workers (Regulation of Employment and Conditions of Service) Act, 1996, commonly known as the BOCW Act, is the primary legislation in India that specifically governs the safety, health, and welfare of workers engaged in construction projects.
Why the other options are wrong
A: The Factories Act, 1948 regulates working conditions in manufacturing factories. B: The Mines Act, 1952 applies to mines and oilfields. D: The Workmen's Compensation Act, 1923 deals with financial compensation for injuries, not the comprehensive safety and welfare framework of construction projects.
Shortcut
Look for keywords like 'Construction Workers' which directly point to the BOCW Act.
Common mistake
Confusing the Factories Act or Workmen's Compensation Act as the primary comprehensive safety legislation specifically meant for construction sites.
Correct answer: C) The Building and Other Construction Workers (BOCW) Act, 1996