Kochi: Labour department intensifies raid on worksites

KOCHI: A team of labour department officials has intensified inspection on construction worksites in Kottayam, Idukki, Ernakulam, Thrissur and Palakakd districts to check whether the State Labour Commissioner’s order on mandatory midday break for labourers working in open space is complied with. Regional Joint Labour Commissioner K Sreelal instru-cted to intensify the raid.

During the inspection led by district labour officers, labourers in construction sites were asked not to work during the midday break from 12 - 3. Contractors who employed workers have been asked to strictly comply with the order.

It was found that the order is not being followed in small worksites, especially in rural areas. “Legal action inc-luding issuing of stop memo will be taken ag-ainst the contractors,” said Regional Joint Labour Commissioner.

The Labour department has rescheduled the working time of labourers to avoid sunstroke in the sweltering summer. “Considering the extreme hot climate contractors and workers should strictly take the mandatory midday break, to ensure their safety. Inspection will continue in coming days to check violation of the order,” added the official.

Public has been urged to contact the department if any violation of the order is noticed. The numbers are 1800425552 14, 155300, 0484 2422244.