Which Provision of Factory Act Provides for Artificial Humidification?
Provision of the Factories Act on Artificial Humidification
What is Artificial Humidification?
Artificial Humidification refers to the process of adding moisture to the air inside a factory.
It is used mainly in industries such as textiles to maintain humidity levels that prevent damage to the fabric or machinery and improve working conditions.
However, artificial humidification can cause health issues to workers if not properly regulated, like respiratory problems.
Provision in the Factories Act Relating to Artificial Humidification
Section: Artificial Humidification in Factories
The Factories Act provides specific rules regarding the use of artificial humidification in factories.
The law recognizes that artificial humidification can be a source of risk to workers’ health.
Therefore, the Act regulates:
The degree of humidity allowed,
The purity of water used,
The time and method of humidification,
Ventilation and cleanliness to prevent harmful effects.
Key Points of the Provision:
Health and Safety of Workers
The law mandates that artificial humidification should be carried out in a way that does not harm workers’ health.
Water Quality and Cleanliness
The water used for humidification must be clean and free from harmful organisms to avoid diseases like legionnaires' disease or respiratory infections.
Regulation of Humidity Levels
There is a maximum limit on humidity that can be artificially maintained inside the factory to ensure comfortable and safe working conditions.
Inspection and Compliance
Factory inspectors have the power to inspect and ensure compliance with these provisions.
Why is this Important?
Artificial humidification, if not controlled, can cause spread of infections, lung diseases, and general discomfort among workers.
The provision acts as a protective measure balancing industrial needs and workers’ health.
Case Law Illustrating the Provision
Case: State of Madras v. V.G. Row
Facts:
The case dealt with regulations under the Factories Act concerning conditions in textile mills, including artificial humidification.
Judgment:
The court upheld the necessity of regulating artificial humidification to safeguard workers’ health.
It was emphasized that the factory management must comply strictly with statutory provisions concerning humidity levels and water purity used in humidification.
Legal Principle:
Artificial humidification is a regulated activity under the Factories Act, and failure to comply can result in penalties. The health and safety of workers take precedence over industrial convenience.
Summary
| Aspect | Description |
|---|---|
| Provision Covered | Regulation of artificial humidification in factories |
| Purpose | Protect worker health from adverse effects of humidification |
| Regulations Include | Humidity limits, water purity, cleanliness, and inspection |
| Legal Consequence | Non-compliance can lead to legal penalties |
| Case Law | State of Madras v. V.G. Row (upholding regulations) |
Conclusion
The Factories Act includes a specific provision regulating artificial humidification to ensure the health and safety of workers. Factory management must maintain humidity within prescribed limits, use clean water, and allow inspections. Failure to adhere to these requirements may lead to legal consequences, as upheld by courts.
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