Introduction

The Shop and Establishment Act, often referred to as the Shops and Establishments Act, is a state-specific legislation enacted across India to regulate conditions of work and employment in shops, commercial establishments, and other workplaces. The primary objective of this act is to ensure proper working conditions, rights of employees, and compliance with rules governing establishments where goods and services are sold, exchanged, or distributed.

Shop and Commercial Establishment image
Shop and Commercial Establishment compliance

The Shops and Establishments Act Aim

The Shops and Establishments Act aims to create a uniform regulatory framework for businesses, promote decent working conditions, protect the rights of employees, and ensure proper management practices in various commercial establishments across India. Each state or union territory may have its own Shops and Establishments Act with specific rules tailored to local requirements and circumstances.

Importance of the Shops and Establishments Act

The Shops and Establishments Act holds significant importance for both businesses and employees in India due to several key reasons:

It establishes uniform regulations across different types of businesses, ensuring consistent working conditions such as working hours, rest periods, and overtime pay. This helps in maintaining fair practices and preventing exploitation of employees.

The Act safeguards the rights of employees by stipulating provisions for holidays, leaves (such as annual leave, sick leave, maternity/paternity leave), and provisions for safe working conditions. It ensures that employees are treated fairly and their welfare is prioritized.

By setting guidelines for the employment of women and children, the Act contributes to maintaining a safe and secure working environment. It prohibits the employment of children in certain hazardous occupations and protects women from exploitation at workplaces.

The Act mandates businesses to register with local authorities, maintain prescribed registers, and adhere to statutory obligations. This promotes transparency and accountability in business operations.

It provides a legal framework for resolving disputes related to employment conditions, ensuring that both employers and employees have recourse to legal mechanisms in case of grievances.

By fostering a conducive environment for businesses to operate ethically and efficiently, the Shops and Establishments Act contributes to economic growth. It promotes productivity and stability in the labour market, which is essential for sustainable economic development.

The Act also extends its provisions to cover small establishments and the informal sector, thereby bringing them under the purview of legal protections and ensuring their integration into formal economic activities.

An employment termination policy is essential for businesses to outline clear procedures for ending an employee’s tenure. Whether it’s voluntary resignation, involuntary termination, or layoff due to downsizing, having a structured approach helps protect both the company and its employees.

Key Elements of an Employment Termination Policy:

  1. Types of Termination:
    • Voluntary Termination: When an employee resigns or retires.
    • Involuntary Termination: Includes dismissals due to misconduct, poor performance, or violation of company policies.
    • Layoff or Redundancy: Due to economic reasons, changes in business strategy, or position elimination.
  2. Notice Period: Clearly state the required notice for resignations and whether payment in lieu of notice is applicable.
  3. Severance Pay: Include details on severance packages, if applicable, based on the length of service or employment contract.
  4. Final Pay and Benefits: Ensure the policy outlines the timeline for the payment of the final paycheck, including any unpaid wages, accrued vacation, or unused PTO.
  5. Exit Interviews: Conducting exit interviews can help gather feedback and improve workplace culture.
  6. Return of Company Property: Employees must return company-issued equipment, keys, and documents on their last working day.
  7. Legal Compliance: Ensure compliance with local laws, including anti-discrimination laws and employment-at-will doctrines.

Benefits of an Employment Termination Policy

  • Maintains Company Reputation: A fair termination process helps maintain a positive brand image.
  • Reduces Legal Risks: A clear, consistent policy helps reduce the risk of wrongful termination lawsuits.
  • Improves Employee Relations: When handled properly, termination can be a transparent and respectful process, leaving room for future collaboration.

The Maharashtra Shops and Establishment Act is a regulatory framework designed to govern the working conditions, rights, and responsibilities of employers and employees in shops, commercial establishments, and other service sectors across Maharashtra. The Act focuses on ensuring proper working hours, overtime wages, holidays, rest intervals, and maintaining registers.

Key areas covered under the Act include:

  1. Registration Requirements: All shops and establishments in Maharashtra must be registered under the Act to legally operate.
  2. Working Hours Regulations: The Act defines maximum working hours, including overtime and compulsory weekly offs, to protect employee rights.
  3. Employment Conditions: It mandates rules for wages, leave entitlements, maternity benefits, and working conditions to maintain fair employment practices.
  4. Health and Safety Provisions: The Act ensures proper health, hygiene, and safety measures in commercial establishments.
  5. Penalties for Non-Compliance: Employers failing to comply with the rules can face penalties, including fines and legal actions.

The Karnataka Shops and Establishments Act, 1961 governs the working conditions, rights, and responsibilities of employers and employees in commercial establishments, shops, and other service sectors in the state of Karnataka. The Act aims to regulate aspects such as working hours, wages, holidays, leave policies, and the health and safety of employees, ensuring fair treatment and proper working conditions.

Key Provisions of the Karnataka Shops and Establishments Act:

  1. Registration of Shops and Establishments: Every shop or commercial establishment must register under the Karnataka Shops and Establishments Act within 30 days of commencement of business.
  2. Working Hours and Overtime: The Act limits working hours to 9 hours per day and 48 hours per week. Overtime should be compensated at twice the ordinary wage rate.
  3. Leave Entitlements: Employees are entitled to specific leave benefits, including annual leave, sick leave, and casual leave. Employers must comply with these provisions for a well-balanced work environment.
  4. Holidays and Weekly Offs: The Act mandates one day off per week, along with specified national holidays for employees in establishments covered under the Act.
  5. Health, Safety, and Welfare Provisions: The Act ensures that establishments maintain hygienic conditions, provide clean drinking water, proper lighting, ventilation, and first-aid facilities.
  6. Wages and Employment Terms: It regulates wage payments and employment terms, including maternity benefits, employment termination rules, and penalties for non-compliance.
  7. Record Maintenance and Compliance: Employers must maintain records related to employee attendance, wages, leave, and working hours to ensure transparency and compliance with the Act.
  8. Penalties for Non-Compliance: Businesses that fail to adhere to the provisions of the Act may face fines, penalties, or legal action for violation of the rules.

Key Features of the Tamil Nadu Shops and Establishments Act

  1. Applicability:
    • The Act applies to all shops and commercial establishments in Tamil Nadu, including retail shops, restaurants, hotels, and offices.
  2. Registration:
    • Every shop or establishment must be registered under the Act. The registration process involves submitting an application to the local authority, along with required documents such as the establishment’s name, address, and the number of employees.
  3. Working Hours:
    • The Act specifies the maximum working hours for employees. Generally, employees cannot work more than 9 hours a day and 48 hours a week. Additionally, provisions are in place for rest intervals and overtime.
  4. Leave Provisions:
    • Employees are entitled to various types of leave, including casual leave, sick leave, and earned leave. The Act ensures that employees can take time off for personal matters without losing their pay.
  5. Wages:
    • The Act stipulates the timely payment of wages and requires employers to maintain a record of wages paid to employees.
  6. Overtime Payment:
    • If employees work beyond the prescribed working hours, they are entitled to overtime pay, typically at a higher rate than their regular hourly wage.
  7. Health and Safety:
    • Employers are required to maintain a safe and hygienic working environment. This includes providing adequate sanitation facilities, clean drinking water, and proper ventilation.
  8. Termination of Employment:
    • The Act lays down the procedures for terminating an employee’s service, ensuring that due process is followed, and providing employees with notice or compensation as applicable.
  9. Penalties for Non-compliance:
    • Employers who fail to comply with the provisions of the Act may face penalties, including fines and legal action.

Importance of Compliance

Compliance with the Tamil Nadu Shops and Establishments Act is essential for both employers and employees. For employers, adherence to the Act helps avoid legal disputes and penalties, while ensuring a positive work environment that can enhance employee morale and productivity. For employees, the Act provides legal protection of their rights, ensuring fair treatment, safety, and benefits in the workplace.

The Telangana Shops and Establishments Act is designed to regulate the working conditions, rights, and welfare of employees in shops and commercial establishments across the state of Telangana. This legislation aims to create a fair and equitable working environment for all workers in the retail and commercial sectors.

Key Features of the Telangana Shops and Establishments Act

  1. Applicability:
    • The Act applies to all shops, commercial establishments, and even certain categories of organizations such as educational institutions, hospitals, and other service providers.
  2. Registration:
    • Every shop and establishment must register under the Act within 30 days of commencement of operations. Registration involves submitting an application along with necessary documents, including the establishment’s name, address, type of business, and the number of employees.
  3. Working Hours:
    • The Act specifies the maximum working hours for employees, generally not exceeding 8 hours a day and 48 hours a week. The provisions also include mandatory rest intervals during working hours.
  4. Leave Provisions:
    • Employees are entitled to various types of leave, such as casual leave, sick leave, and earned leave. The Act ensures employees can take time off for personal reasons without loss of pay.
  5. Wages:
    • The Act mandates timely payment of wages and requires employers to maintain accurate records of wages paid to employees.
  6. Overtime Payment:
    • Employees who work beyond the prescribed working hours are entitled to overtime pay at a rate usually higher than their regular hourly wage.
  7. Health and Safety:
    • Employers are required to maintain a safe working environment, ensuring compliance with health and safety standards. This includes adequate sanitation facilities, safe drinking water, and proper ventilation.
  8. Termination of Employment:
    • The Act outlines procedures for the termination of employment, ensuring that due process is followed, and employees receive notice or compensation as applicable.
  9. Penalties for Non-compliance:
    • Employers who do not comply with the provisions of the Act may face penalties, including fines and legal consequences.

Importance of Compliance

Compliance with the Telangana Shops and Establishments Act is crucial for both employers and employees. For employers, adhering to the Act helps mitigate legal risks and fosters a positive work environment, which can lead to higher employee satisfaction and productivity. For employees, the Act ensures protection of their rights, guaranteeing fair treatment and benefits in the workplace.

The Assam Shops and Establishments Act is a legislative framework established to regulate the conditions of work and employment in shops and commercial establishments throughout the state of Assam, India. This Act aims to ensure the welfare and rights of workers in the retail and service sectors, providing a structured approach to managing work conditions, hours, wages, and employee rights.

Key Features of the Assam Shops and Establishments Act

  1. Applicability:
    • The Act applies to all shops, commercial establishments, and specific service providers, including restaurants, hotels, and other entities engaged in trade or commerce in Assam.
  2. Registration:
    • Every shop and establishment must register under the Act within a specified time frame after commencing operations. The registration process includes submitting an application along with relevant documents such as the establishment’s name, address, and nature of the business.
  3. Working Hours:
    • The Act regulates the working hours for employees, typically setting a maximum limit of 8 hours a day and 48 hours a week. It also stipulates the need for breaks and rest periods during working hours.
  4. Leave Entitlements:
    • Employees are entitled to various types of leave, including casual leave, sick leave, and annual leave. The Act ensures that employees can take necessary time off without loss of wages.
  5. Wage Provisions:
    • Employers must pay wages on time and maintain accurate records of wage payments to ensure transparency and accountability.
  6. Overtime Compensation:
    • The Act mandates that employees who work beyond the prescribed hours are entitled to overtime pay, typically calculated at a higher rate than their regular hourly wage.
  7. Health and Safety Standards:
    • Employers are responsible for maintaining a safe and healthy work environment. This includes providing adequate sanitation, safe drinking water, and necessary safety equipment.
  8. Termination of Employment:
    • The Act outlines the process for terminating employment, ensuring that employees are given proper notice or compensation in accordance with the law.
  9. Penalties for Non-compliance:
    • Employers who violate the provisions of the Act may face penalties, including fines and other legal consequences, emphasizing the importance of compliance.

Importance of Compliance

Compliance with the Assam Shops and Establishments Act is essential for both employers and employees. For employers, adherence to the Act helps prevent legal disputes and enhances the overall working conditions in their establishments, which can lead to increased employee satisfaction and productivity. For employees, the Act provides essential protections and rights, ensuring fair treatment in the workplace.

Key Provisions of the Shops and Establishments Act

The regulations concerning working hours under the Shops and Establishments Act are crucial for ensuring fair labour practices and maintaining employee welfare. While specific details can vary between states in India, the general provisions typically include:

  • Defines the spread-over period, which is the total duration including breaks that an employee can be required to work.
  • Mandates rest intervals or breaks during working hours, ensuring that employees have time for meals and rest.
  • The Act sets limits on the maximum number of hours an employee can work per day and per week.
  • For example, it may specify that employees should not work more than 9 hours a day or 48 hours a week (including overtime).
  • Prescribes conditions under which overtime work may be permitted, such as emergencies or urgent work requirements.
  • Specifies the rate of overtime pay or compensatory off that employees are entitled to for work done beyond regular working hours.

Establishes rules for night shifts, including provisions for additional compensation, transport facilities, and safety measures for employees working during night hours.

Ensures transparency and accountability in managing working hours and compliance with statutory requirements.

Requires employers to maintain records of working hours, attendance, and overtime worked by employees.

Provides for a compulsory weekly holiday (usually Sunday or any other day of the week as agreed upon) for all employees.

  • Specifies that employees should not be required to work on this day, except under certain conditions or in specified sectors where continuous operations are essential.
  • A weekly holiday is a mandatory day of rest given to employees every week.
  • In most states, Sunday is the designated weekly holiday, but establishments can choose another day of the week with prior notice to the authorities.
  • This ensures that employees have at least one day off per week to rest and rejuvenate.
  • These holidays vary based on the religious and cultural diversity in India. For example, Diwali, Eid, Christmas, etc., are festival holidays depending on the region and establishment.
  • Festival holidays are granted to employees on specific days that hold religious, cultural, or national significance.
  • Employees are entitled to a paid holiday on these days, regardless of their religion or region.
  • These holidays include occasions such as Republic Day (January 26), Independence Day (August 15), Gandhi Jayanti (October 2), etc.
  • National holidays are public holidays that are observed nationwide across India.
  1. Casual leave, also known as earned leave or privilege leave, is typically granted at the discretion of the employer.
  2. It allows employees to take time off for personal reasons, emergencies, or unplanned events.
  3. The number of casual leave days granted may vary based on the employment contract or company policy.
  • The Shops and Establishments Act may specify the number of sick leave days an employee is entitled to and the conditions under which it can be availed.
  • Sick leave is provided to employees for periods when they are unable to work due to illness or health-related issues.
  • Maternity leave is granted to female employees during pregnancy and after childbirth to enable them to recover and care for their newborn.
  • Paternity leave is granted to male employees to support their spouse during childbirth and to care for the new born.
  • These leaves are typically governed by specific laws such as the Maternity Benefit Act and Paternity Benefit Act, in addition to provisions under the Shops and Establishments Act.

Restrictions and regulations and Employment of Children and Women:

The Shop and Establishment Act imposes restrictions and regulations to protect the employment rights of children and women. For children, the Act typically prohibits employment below a certain age, often 14 years, and restricts working hours and conditions for those above the minimum age. For women, the Act may include provisions such as prohibiting work during certain hours (e.g., late nights), ensuring safe and healthy working conditions, and providing maternity leave and other benefits. These regulations aim to ensure fair treatment and safe working environments for vulnerable groups.

The Shop and Establishment Act imposes several restrictions and regulations to safeguard the employment of children and women:

1. Prohibition of Employment: Children below a certain age (often 14 years) are generally prohibited from being employed in any establishment.

2. Working Hours: For those above the minimum age but still minors (typically 14-18 years), there are restrictions on working hours, often limiting them to a maximum of 6 hours per day and prohibiting night shifts.

3. Health and Safety: Employers must ensure a safe working environment, free from hazardous conditions.

1. Working Hours: Women may be restricted from working during late-night hours, often between 9 PM and 6 AM, to ensure their safety.

2. Maternity Benefits: Provisions for maternity leave and other related benefits must be provided as per the law.

3. Safety and Welfare: Employers must ensure a safe and healthy working environment, including measures to prevent harassment and provide necessary facilities such as restrooms and rest areas.

Registration and Renewal Process

The registration and renewal process under the Shop and Establishment Act typically involves the following steps:

  1. Application Submission: The owner of a shop or establishment must submit an application for registration to the local labour department within a specified period (usually 30 days) from the start of business operations.
  2. Form and Documents: The application must be submitted in the prescribed format, along with necessary documents such as proof of establishment address, identity proof of the owner, and details of employees.
  3. Inspection: In some cases, an inspection of the premises may be conducted by the labour inspector to verify the details provided in the application.
  4. Registration Certificate: Upon satisfactory verification, a registration certificate is issued to the owner. This certificate must be prominently displayed at the establishment.
  1. Application for Renewal: The registration certificate must be renewed periodically, typically on an annual basis. The renewal application should be submitted before the expiry of the current registration.
  2. Form and Fees: The renewal application must be submitted in the prescribed format, along with the renewal fee and any required documents.
  3. Verification: The labour department may verify the details provided in the renewal application.
  4. Issuance of Renewal Certificate: Upon successful verification, a renewal certificate is issued, which should be displayed at the establishment.
Renewal Process

Inspection and Compliance Requirements

The Shop and Establishment Act includes specific provisions for compliance and inspection to ensure that businesses adhere to labour laws and maintain fair working conditions. Here are the key aspects:

Inspection Requirements

  •  Regular Inspections: Labour inspectors conduct regular inspections to ensure compliance with the Act.
  • Inspection Frequency: The frequency of inspections may vary based on the size and nature of the establishment.

Unannounced Visits: Inspectors may conduct surprise visits to check for compliance without prior notice.

Access to Records: Inspectors have the right to access all relevant records and documents maintained by the establishment.

Examination of Premises: Inspectors can examine the working conditions, safety measures, and welfare facilities provided.

  • Inspection Reports: Inspectors prepare detailed reports of their findings, noting any violations or areas of non-compliance.
  • Follow-Up Actions: Establishments must address any issues or irregularities pointed out in the inspection reports.
  • Penalties for Non-Compliance: Establishments found in violation of the Act may face penalties, fines, or legal actions.
  • Corrective Measures: Establishments are required to take corrective measures to rectify any non-compliance issues within a specified period.
Inspection port

Compliance Requirements:

  • Initial Registration: Register the establishment with the local labour department within a specified period from the commencement of business.
  • Renewal of Registration: Renew the registration certificate periodically, typically on an annual basis.
  • Display of Certificate: Prominently display the registration certificate at the establishment.
  • Employee Records: Maintain detailed records of employees, including personal details, terms of employment, and attendance.
  • Wage Records: Keep comprehensive records of wages paid, including any deductions and overtime payments.
  • Leave Records: Maintain records of all leave taken by employees, including annual, sick, and maternity leave.
  • Inspection Book: Keep an inspection book for recording visits and observations by labour inspectors.
  • Working Hours: Ensure employees do not exceed the prescribed working hours (usually 8-9 hours per day and 48 hours per week).
  • Overtime: Compensate employees for overtime work at a higher rate than regular wages.
  • Rest Intervals: Provide adequate rest intervals during working hours.
  • Weekly Holidays: Ensure employees receive at least one day off per week.
  • Annual Leave: Provide a specified number of days of paid annual leave.
  • Sick Leave: Offer paid sick leave as per statutory requirements.
  • Maternity Leave: Grant maternity leave to female employees as per the law.
  • Public Holidays: Allow paid leave on public holidays.
  • Cleanliness: Maintain a clean and hygienic workplace.
  • Ventilation and Lighting: Ensure adequate ventilation and proper lighting.
  • Safety Measures: Implement necessary safety measures to prevent accidents.
  • Welfare Facilities: Provide essential facilities such as drinking water, restrooms, and first aid.
  • Minimum Wage: Ensure wages are not below the minimum wage rate prescribed by law.
  • Timely Payment: Pay wages on time as per the agreed terms of employment.
  • Deductions: Make only lawful deductions from wages, such as for taxes or provident fund contributions.
  • Grievance Mechanism: Establish a mechanism for employees to raise grievances and complaints.
  • Dispute Resolution: Set up procedures for resolving disputes between employers and employees.
Inspection and Compliance

The Shops and Establishments registration in Delhi NCR

The Shops and Establishments Act in Delhi, also known as the Delhi Shops and Establishments Act, is a state legislation aimed at regulating the working conditions of employees in shops, commercial establishments, residential hotels, restaurants, theaters, and other public amusement or entertainment places. The Act lays down provisions related to working hours, rest intervals, holidays, and other conditions of service.

Registration Process

  • Any commercial establishment or shop employing one or more workers must register under the Delhi Shops and Establishments Act. This includes businesses like retail shops, offices, cafes, restaurants, coaching institutes licences and more.
  • Building approval for retail shops, offices, cafes, restaurants, coaching institutes licences and more.
  • Proof of establishment (lease agreement, property tax receipt, etc.)
  • Identity proof of the owner (Aadhar card, passport, etc.)
  • Address proof of the owner (electricity bill, Aadhar card, etc.)
  • List of employees, if applicable Details of the establishment, including the nature of business and number of employees
  • Application: The employer must apply for registration by submitting an online or offline application form to the Labour Department within 30 days of starting the business.
  • Submission of Documents: Along with the application, the required documents must be submitted.
  • Inspection: If necessary, an inspection may be conducted by the authorities to verify the information provided.
  • Registration Certificate: Upon approval, a registration certificate will be issued, which must be displayed prominently at the establishment.

The registration certificate needs to be renewed periodically, usually annually or as specified. Any changes in the establishment, such as a change of address or ownership, must be reported to the Labour Department, and the registration certificate must be amended accordingly.

Compliance:

  • Employers must comply with various provisions of the Act, including maintaining proper records of attendance, wages, and working hours.
  • The Act also mandates the observance of certain holidays and ensures the welfare of employees through provisions related to leaves, overtime, and more.

Penalties: Non-compliance with the provisions of the Delhi Shops and Establishments Act may result in penalties, including fines and legal actions.

The Shop and Establishment Act FAQs:

What is the process for cancellation of a Shop and Establishment license?

Answer: To cancel a Shop and Establishment license, business owners must submit a cancellation request to the local labour department, citing reasons like closure of business or relocation. Some states offer an online cancellation process.

What documents are needed for Shop and Establishment registration?

Answer: Documents for registration typically include business license, employee details, address proof, and identity proof of the owner. States may have specific documentation requirements, which can be verified through the state labour department.

How can businesses file grievances under The Shop and Establishment Act?

Answer: Businesses or employees can file grievances related to the Act with the local labour department or labour commissioner. Many states provide an online grievance filing option, ensuring that complaints are addressed promptly.

Is the Shop and Establishment Act different in each state?

Answer: Yes, each state has its own version of the Shop and Establishment Act, which may vary slightly in terms of working hours, registration process, leave policies, and other specifics. Employers must follow the Act specific to their state of operation.

What are the penalties for non-compliance with The Shop and Establishment Act?

Answer: Non-compliance with the Act can lead to penalties, including fines and legal actions. Failing to register, maintain records, or comply with work hour regulations are common violations that attract fines.

What are the record-keeping requirements under The Shop and Establishment Act?

Answer: Employers must maintain records related to employee attendance, wages, leave, working hours, and other statutory requirements. These records help ensure compliance with the Act and may be audited by labor inspectors.

Are there any exemptions under The Shop and Establishment Act?

Answer: Certain categories of employees, such as managerial staff, may be exempt from provisions related to working hours and overtime. Exemptions vary by state, so employers should check state-specific rules and conditions.

What are the employer obligations under The Shop and Establishment Act?

Answer: Employers must maintain a safe and healthy workplace, keep proper records of employee details, wages, working hours, and leave. Compliance with regulations on work hours, leave policies, and wage payments is essential to avoid penalties.

What employee benefits are required under The Shop and Establishment Act?

Answer: The Act mandates employee benefits like paid leave, sick leave, maternity leave, and casual leave. Employees are also entitled to a safe working environment, specified working hours, and fair wages.

What is the procedure for renewing Shop and Establishment licenses?

Answer: To renew a Shop and Establishment license, business owners need to submit a renewal application before the expiry date. Renewal procedures and documentation vary by state, and many states now offer online renewal options.

What are the working hours and overtime rules under The Shop and Establishment Act?

Answer: The Act regulates working hours, including overtime rules, rest intervals, and weekly off days. Working hours are generally capped at 9 hours a day or 48 hours a week, with overtime pay required for additional hours worked.

Why is registration under The Shop and Establishment Act important?

Answer: Registration is mandatory for businesses, as it provides legal recognition and compliance with local labor laws. It helps businesses avoid penalties, ensures employee rights, and boosts credibility with customers and employees.

What is the process for Shop and Establishment registration?

Answer: To register under the Shop and Establishment Act, business owners must submit an application form, with details about the establishment and employees, to the local labor department. Many states now allow online registration through their official portals.

Who is covered under The Shop and Establishment Act?

Answer: The Act applies to employees working in shops, retail businesses, restaurants, theaters, hotels, service establishments, and similar businesses. Both full-time and part-time employees are covered to ensure fair treatment and workplace protection.

What is The Shop and Establishment Act?

Answer: The Shop and Establishment Act is a labor law governing the working conditions, hours, rest periods, and wages of employees in shops, commercial establishments, and other service providers. The Act ensures employee welfare by setting minimum standards for work environments and applies to both small and large businesses.