A special Gazette notification has been issued permitting the employment of women over the age of 18 for night work in the hospitality and food service industries, subject to strict conditions to safeguard their safety, health and welfare.
The Extraordinary Gazette, issued on January 30, amends existing regulations under the Shop and Office Employees (Regulation of Employment and Remuneration) Act, expanding the scope for employing female workers during night hours.
Under the new regulations, women aged 18 and above may be employed between 6.00 p.m. and 6.00 a.m. the following day in sectors including hospitality, food and beverage services and related establishments.
However, the Gazette places clear responsibilities on employers, stating that they are fully accountable for the healthcare, safety and welfare of women engaged in night work under these provisions.
Employers are required to ensure appropriate accommodation is provided from the end of a shift until 6.00 a.m., or alternatively, arrange safe transport to the employee’s usual place of residence when the shift ends between 6.00 p.m. and 6.00 a.m. the following day.
The regulations further emphasise that necessary measures must be taken to create a safe working environment for female employees, including protection during night-time hours.
The amendments were made under Section 66 of the Act and were issued by Minister of Labour Dr. Anil Jayantha Fernando. The new provisions are aimed at aligning labour regulations with evolving industry requirements while maintaining safeguards for women employed in night-time occupations. (Newswire)
