New Delhi, Nov 28 (NationPress) The recent unification of India's labour regulations is poised to greatly enhance the safety, health, and welfare of dock workers through mandatory dock registration, universal social security coverage, and improved safety standards, as indicated by official data released on Friday.

These reforms require docks to register as formal establishments, which ensures official acknowledgment of the docks, allowing workers to access their legal rights, claim entitlements, and seek redress, according to the official statement.

Establishments are obligated to keep records and comply with required safety, health, and welfare standards, thereby enhancing accountability.

Previously, numerous docks operated without formal registration, which limited regulatory oversight and deprived workers of essential legal protections. Dock workers, particularly those employed casually or indirectly, were often excluded from social security benefits.

The Code on Social Security and the Occupational Safety, Health and Working Conditions Code now provide universal coverage under provident fund, pension, and insurance for all dock workers, including contract and temporary staff.

Additionally, the new legislation mandates the issuance of appointment letters and formal recognition of service, ensuring inclusion in social security databases, as noted in the statement.

The newly implemented labour codes also introduce digital platforms for dock registration, compliance, and benefit delivery.

Online registration, documentation, and reporting are anticipated to enhance transparency and minimize delays, while e-governance for wages, complaints, and benefits guarantees efficiency and reduces disputes.

The labour codes facilitate interstate and cross-regional portability of social security records, supporting worker mobility, the government indicated.

Safety measures now encompass all dock employees, mandating annual employer-funded health check-ups that promote early detection of occupational health risks.

Moreover, comprehensive risk assessments and preventive measures address dock-specific dangers, such as falls, fire, explosions, noise, and exposure to hazardous materials.

The regulations also require certified lifting devices, protective gear, and lifesaving equipment, alongside on-site medical facilities, first aid, sanitary areas, drinking water, and rest zones, as highlighted in the statement.