Under Section 112 of the Factories Act, 1948, the Kerala government has released draft amendments to the Kerala Factories Rules, 1957. The main modifications require safety audits for factories that use dangerous chemicals, have 100 or more employees, or use risky processes. The amendments specify the requirements for internal and external audits, as well as the reporting, corrective action, and exemption processes.

Key Impacts:

1. Internal and external audits are required for factories that handle hazardous chemicals, have high-risk operations, or have more than 100 employees.

2. Institutions must maintain multidisciplinary teams and fulfill the requirements; recognition is renewable after three years.

3. Audits must adhere to the most recent standards or IS 14489:1998.

4. The Chief Inspector and occupiers receive audit reports; they have 30 days to take corrective action.

5. Depending on compliance or safety concerns, the Chief Inspector has the authority to grant or revoke exemptions and recognition.

6. It is strictly forbidden to use children, adolescents, pregnant women, and nursing mothers in dangerous jobs.

7. ₹50,000 is the application and renewal fee for Safety Auditor recognition.

8. Safety auditors are subject to civil and criminal penalties for violating confidentiality.

Amendments to the Kerala Factories Rules, 1957