Overview
The principal legislation governing the safety, health, and welfare of dock workers employed in major and non-major ports across India. Empowers the Central Government to make regulations for the prevention of accidents and occupational diseases among dock workers.
Key Provisions
Power to make regulations for safety, health, and welfare of dock workers (Section 4)
Appointment of Inspectors and Chief Inspector of Dock Safety (Section 5)
Duties of employers to comply with regulations and maintain safe working conditions (Section 6)
Prohibition on employment of dock workers in contravention of regulations (Section 7)
Penalties for contravention — imprisonment up to 2 years or fine up to ₹2 lakh (Section 10)
Application to major ports under the Major Port Trusts Act and other notified ports
Applicability
Major ports notified under the Major Port Trusts Act, 1963
Non-major ports notified by the Central Government
Employers of dock workers — port trusts, stevedores, cargo handling agencies
Dock workers engaged in loading, unloading, movement, or storage of cargo
Amendment History
2012
Amendment to extend coverage and update penalty provisions.
1990
Dock Workers (Safety, Health and Welfare) Regulations, 1990 notified under the Act.
1986
Original enactment