The Government of Maharashtra has notified the Maharashtra Factories (Safety Audit) (Amendment) Rules, 2024 to further amend Maharashtra Factories (Safety Audit) Rules, 2014, effective immediately. This amendment lowers the threshold for mandatory safety audits from factories employing 250 workers to those employing 50 or more workers.
- Further, the definition of a Safety Auditor has been broadened to include institutions recognized by a committee constituted by the State Government ensuring audits are conducted in accordance with the new Rules;
- After completing an internal audit, the occupier must submit an executive summary of observations and an action-taken report to the Chief Inspector of Factories within thirty days of completion of the audit;
- The eligibility criteria of safety officer is now defined as a person who possess degree in Chemical, Electrical and Mechanical Branch and possessing the qualifications, experience or any other requirements set out in Schedule I;
- The occupier of the factory has to electronically inform the officer of Directorate of Industrial Safety and Health seven days in advance before the commencement of the safety audit.
Source: Industries, Energy, Labour and Mining Department
