In a significant move aimed at bolstering workplace safety, India's upcoming labour codes are set to introduce stringent new rules for the employment of women during night hours. The regulations mandate that employers must obtain explicit written consent and provide secure transportation for female staff working late shifts.
Key Safety Provisions for Night Shifts
The proposed framework, detailed in the new set of labour codes, places a strong emphasis on creating a secure environment. A core requirement is that employers must secure written consent from women employees before assigning them to night duty. This formal agreement ensures transparency and voluntary participation.
Furthermore, companies will be obligated to arrange for safe and reliable transport facilities to drop these employees home after their shift ends. This measure directly addresses a major concern regarding the safety of women commuting late at night.
Enhanced Workplace Infrastructure and Surveillance
Beyond consent and transport, the rules specify critical upgrades to workplace infrastructure. Employers must ensure that washroom and drinking water facilities are located in close proximity to the areas where women are working. This eliminates the need for long, potentially unsafe walks within or around the worksite.
To further guarantee security, the codes stipulate the installation of suitable Closed-circuit television (CCTV) surveillance along the pathways leading to these essential facilities. This continuous monitoring acts as both a deterrent to misconduct and a tool for investigation if needed.
Implementation and Broader Impact
These provisions are part of the consolidated labour codes that aim to modernize India's employment laws. As reported by Shemin Joy and last updated on 01 January 2026, the rules represent a paradigm shift in institutional responsibility for women's safety at work.
The implications for employers across sectors are substantial. They will need to:
- Formalize night shift consent procedures.
- Invest in or partner with verified transport services.
- Audit and modify workplace layouts for better facility access.
- Install and maintain comprehensive CCTV systems as specified.
This regulatory push is expected to encourage greater female participation in the workforce across industries that operate beyond traditional daylight hours, while simultaneously holding organizations accountable for providing a concrete safety net. The move has been widely welcomed as a necessary step towards inclusive and secure employment practices in the country.
