Odisha Allows Women To Work Night Shifts In Private Sector, Issues Stringent Safety Guidelines
To facilitate secure commuting, companies are required to provide GPS-enabled transport or safe accommodation near the workplace. All drivers, whether directly hired or outsourced, must undergo police verification: Reports
BHUBANESWAR: In a major policy shift aimed at boosting gender inclusion and business ease, the Odisha government has officially permitted women to work night shifts in private establishments. The labour and employees’ state insurance department has issued a formal notification, outlining robust safety measures to ensure women's security and well-being during night hours.
Under the revised rules, women can work between 7 pm and 6 am only with their ‘written consent.’ Employers must deploy a minimum of three women per shift and ensure the presence of a female supervisor during night duty. This change follows an amendment to the Odisha Shops and Commercial Establishments Act, 1956, repealing Clause 23, which earlier restricted night work for women.
The decision excludes adolescents and minors, who are still barred from working at night. Employers must submit a self-certification online affirming compliance with the safety protocols.
To facilitate secure commuting, companies are required to provide GPS-enabled transport or safe accommodation near the workplace. All drivers, whether directly hired or outsourced, must undergo police verification. Helpline numbers—including the State Women’s Helpline (181) and the labour department’s toll-free line (1800-345-6703)—must be displayed both at workplaces and inside transport vehicles.
Workplaces must also ensure adequate lighting, CCTV surveillance, clean restrooms, and drinking water facilities. Importantly, no woman shall be assigned back-to-back day and night shifts without an 8-hour rest period in between, to prevent fatigue.
All establishments must also comply with the Sexual Harassment of Women at Workplace (Prevention, Prohibition and Redressal) Act, 2013, failing which they will attract penalties under Section 35 of the Odisha Shops and Commercial Establishments Act.
The move is seen as a progressive step towards gender equality in the workplace and is expected to open up more employment avenues for women in Odisha’s growing private sector, especially in IT, hospitality, healthcare, and BPO industries.