CONSTRUCTION WORKERS

They are covered under building and other construction workers

(Regulation of employment and conditions of service act 1996). It requires a
registration of employers involved in construction.

“Beneficiary”: - (coverage)
(a) Those who have completed 18 yrs of age but less than 60 yrs. Engaged in
construction work for not less than 90 days during the preceding 12
months.

Contribution to welfare fund: -

The beneficiary has to contribute monthly at the rate specified by the
government. If he is unable to pay, the board can waive up to 3 months
contributions. If there are no contributions. If there is no contribution for a 12
month period, he will cease to be a beneficiary.

Welfare board: -
The TN building and other construction workers board is responsible for
the welfare measures of the construction workmen. The board consists of 15
members with a chairman appointed by the Central government. And equal
representation from employers and workers. At least one of the workers
representatives should be a woman.

Funding for welfare board: -

(1) Contribution by beneficiary
(2) Grants and loans of central government
(3) From other source

Functions of the welfare board: -

(1) Immediate assistance in case of accidents
(2) Payments of pension
(3) Loans and advances for construction of houses
(4) Payment of premium for group insurance schemes
(5) Financial assistance for Children’s education
(6) Medical expenses for treatment of major ailments for self and
dependents.
(7) Maternity benefits for women beneficiary
(8) Provision on improvements of welfare measures and facilities
(9) Loans to local authorities or employers for any approved welfare schemes
for beneficiary.
Welfare measures: -

Working hours: -
(1) Government to fix the working hours.
(2) One day rest for every 7 days with payment at a rate not less than the
overtime rate
(3) The government may attempt from the above provisional in case of
urgent or emergency work preparatory or complementary work to be
done.
(4) Where there is a technical need to complete the work before the day or
when engaged in work incase of natural calamities.
(5) Overtime to be paid twice the normal wages.
(6) Provision of drinking water
(7) Provision of latrines and urinals
(8) Provision for first aid facilities
(9) Provision for a canteen (if more than 200 workmen are there)
(10) Crèches (if more than 50 female workers are there)
Accommodation to be provided with in or near the site with separate cooking
places, bathing, washing and lavatory facilities.
If more than 500 workmen, appointment of safety officer/safety
committee is a must.

Welfare cess Act 1996: -

Under this act, provision has been made for payment of a contribution by
the employees engaged in construction activity. A cess amount of not more than
2% but not less than 1% (as specified by the central government). This amount
collected is paid to the board by the local authority/government/PSU (Public
Service Union).