The Factories Act, 1948 is one of India’s most significant labor legislations, designed to safeguard the welfare, health, and safety of workers employed in factories across the country. Enacted by the Government of India, the Act aims to regulate working conditions and ensure that industrial establishments maintain proper standards of safety, hygiene, and humane working environments. It applies to all factories engaged in manufacturing processes where a specific number of workers are employed, as defined under the Act. The primary objective of the Factories Act is to ensure that employees work in conditions that do not endanger their physical or mental well-being. It mandates provisions related to cleanliness, ventilation, lighting, disposal of waste, drinking water, and adequate sanitation facilities. The Act also includes measures to prevent occupational diseases and accidents, requiring employers to install safety equipment and conduct regular health check-ups for workers exposed to hazardous processes. Additionally, the Act regulates working hours, rest intervals, weekly holidays, and overtime, ensuring that workers are not overworked and receive fair compensation for extra labor. It also lays down specific provisions for the employment of women and young persons, prohibiting child labor and limiting working hours for adolescents and female workers in hazardous conditions. Every factory must obtain a Factory License under the Factories Act, issued by the respective State Labour Department or Chief Inspector of Factories, to legally commence operations.