Amendment to the Shops & Commercial Establishments Act

The Government of Kerala has issued circular no. LCO 1340/2025/EN(2), dated 10^thMarch 2025, regarding the amendment to the Kerala Shops and Commercial Establishments Act, 1960, and Rules, 1961. Section 21(B) has been inserted in the Act, and Rule 6(4)(a) has been inserted in the Rules.

Section 21(B) reads as follows:
“Seating facilities – In every shop and establishment, suitable arrangements for sitting shall be provided to all the workers so as to avoid ‘on their toes’ situation throughout the duty time, so that they may take advantage of any opportunity to sit, which may occur during the course of their work”

Rule 6(4)(a) reads as follows:
“The employer shall provide protective equipment and clothing to the employees in conformity with the quality prescribed by the Bureau of Indian Standards, where there is a likelihood of bodily injury or exposure to physical or chemical hazards”

In addition to the above, the Government has also issued certain safety and welfare guidelines regarding the employment of security personnel.