{"id":34273,"date":"2026-10-16T10:41:05","date_gmt":"2026-10-16T10:41:05","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.legalserviceindia.com\/Legal-Articles\/?p=34273"},"modified":"2026-10-16T10:46:01","modified_gmt":"2026-10-16T10:46:01","slug":"duties-of-employees-regarding-workplace-safety-under-the-occupational-safety-health-and-working-conditions-code-2020","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.legalserviceindia.com\/Legal-Articles\/duties-of-employees-regarding-workplace-safety-under-the-occupational-safety-health-and-working-conditions-code-2020\/","title":{"rendered":"Duties of Employees Regarding Workplace Safety under the Occupational Safety, Health and Working Conditions Code, 2020"},"content":{"rendered":"\n<h2 id=\"h-introduction\" class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Introduction\"><\/span>Introduction<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Workplace safety is a core part of labour welfare. It is not the responsibility of the employer alone. Every employee must also work safely, follow safety rules, protect co-workers and report dangers.<\/p><div id=\"ez-toc-container\" class=\"ez-toc-v2_0_88 counter-hierarchy ez-toc-counter ez-toc-grey ez-toc-container-direction\">\n<div class=\"ez-toc-title-container\">\n<p class=\"ez-toc-title\" style=\"cursor:inherit\">Table of Contents<\/p>\n<span class=\"ez-toc-title-toggle\"><a href=\"#\" class=\"ez-toc-pull-right ez-toc-btn ez-toc-btn-xs ez-toc-btn-default ez-toc-toggle\" aria-label=\"Toggle Table of Content\"><span class=\"ez-toc-js-icon-con\"><span class=\"\"><span class=\"eztoc-hide\" style=\"display:none;\">Toggle<\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-icon-toggle-span\"><svg style=\"fill: #0c0c0c;color:#0c0c0c\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" class=\"list-377408\" width=\"20px\" height=\"20px\" viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" fill=\"none\"><path d=\"M6 6H4v2h2V6zm14 0H8v2h12V6zM4 11h2v2H4v-2zm16 0H8v2h12v-2zM4 16h2v2H4v-2zm16 0H8v2h12v-2z\" fill=\"currentColor\"><\/path><\/svg><svg style=\"fill: #0c0c0c;color:#0c0c0c\" class=\"arrow-unsorted-368013\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" width=\"10px\" height=\"10px\" viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" version=\"1.2\" baseProfile=\"tiny\"><path d=\"M18.2 9.3l-6.2-6.3-6.2 6.3c-.2.2-.3.4-.3.7s.1.5.3.7c.2.2.4.3.7.3h11c.3 0 .5-.1.7-.3.2-.2.3-.5.3-.7s-.1-.5-.3-.7zM5.8 14.7l6.2 6.3 6.2-6.3c.2-.2.3-.5.3-.7s-.1-.5-.3-.7c-.2-.2-.4-.3-.7-.3h-11c-.3 0-.5.1-.7.3-.2.2-.3.5-.3.7s.1.5.3.7z\"\/><\/svg><\/span><\/span><\/span><\/a><\/span><\/div>\n<nav><ul class='ez-toc-list ez-toc-list-level-1 ' ><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-1\" href=\"https:\/\/www.legalserviceindia.com\/Legal-Articles\/duties-of-employees-regarding-workplace-safety-under-the-occupational-safety-health-and-working-conditions-code-2020\/#Introduction\" >Introduction<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-2\" href=\"https:\/\/www.legalserviceindia.com\/Legal-Articles\/duties-of-employees-regarding-workplace-safety-under-the-occupational-safety-health-and-working-conditions-code-2020\/#Statutory_Duties_of_Employees_Under_Section_13\" >Statutory Duties of Employees Under Section 13<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-3' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-3\" href=\"https:\/\/www.legalserviceindia.com\/Legal-Articles\/duties-of-employees-regarding-workplace-safety-under-the-occupational-safety-health-and-working-conditions-code-2020\/#21_Duty_to_Take_Reasonable_Care\" >2.1 Duty to Take Reasonable Care<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-4\" href=\"https:\/\/www.legalserviceindia.com\/Legal-Articles\/duties-of-employees-regarding-workplace-safety-under-the-occupational-safety-health-and-working-conditions-code-2020\/#22_Duty_to_Follow_Safety_Standards\" >2.2 Duty to Follow Safety Standards<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-5\" href=\"https:\/\/www.legalserviceindia.com\/Legal-Articles\/duties-of-employees-regarding-workplace-safety-under-the-occupational-safety-health-and-working-conditions-code-2020\/#23_Duty_to_Cooperate_with_the_Employer\" >2.3 Duty to Cooperate with the Employer<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-6\" href=\"https:\/\/www.legalserviceindia.com\/Legal-Articles\/duties-of-employees-regarding-workplace-safety-under-the-occupational-safety-health-and-working-conditions-code-2020\/#24_Duty_to_Report_Unsafe_or_Unhealthy_Conditions\" >2.4 Duty to Report Unsafe or Unhealthy Conditions<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-7\" href=\"https:\/\/www.legalserviceindia.com\/Legal-Articles\/duties-of-employees-regarding-workplace-safety-under-the-occupational-safety-health-and-working-conditions-code-2020\/#25_Duty_Not_to_Misuse_Safety_Equipment\" >2.5 Duty Not to Misuse Safety Equipment<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-8\" href=\"https:\/\/www.legalserviceindia.com\/Legal-Articles\/duties-of-employees-regarding-workplace-safety-under-the-occupational-safety-health-and-working-conditions-code-2020\/#26_Duty_Not_to_Endanger_Oneself_or_Others\" >2.6 Duty Not to Endanger Oneself or Others<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-9\" href=\"https:\/\/www.legalserviceindia.com\/Legal-Articles\/duties-of-employees-regarding-workplace-safety-under-the-occupational-safety-health-and-working-conditions-code-2020\/#27_Other_Prescribed_Duties\" >2.7 Other Prescribed Duties<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-10\" href=\"https:\/\/www.legalserviceindia.com\/Legal-Articles\/duties-of-employees-regarding-workplace-safety-under-the-occupational-safety-health-and-working-conditions-code-2020\/#Rights_of_Employees_Relating_to_Workplace_Safety_Under_Section_14\" >Rights of Employees Relating to Workplace Safety Under Section 14<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-11\" href=\"https:\/\/www.legalserviceindia.com\/Legal-Articles\/duties-of-employees-regarding-workplace-safety-under-the-occupational-safety-health-and-working-conditions-code-2020\/#Penalties_and_Liabilities_for_Violation_of_Sections_13_and_14\" >Penalties and Liabilities for Violation of Sections 13 and 14<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-12\" href=\"https:\/\/www.legalserviceindia.com\/Legal-Articles\/duties-of-employees-regarding-workplace-safety-under-the-occupational-safety-health-and-working-conditions-code-2020\/#Important_Case_Laws_on_Workplace_Safety\" >Important Case Laws on Workplace Safety<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-3' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-13\" href=\"https:\/\/www.legalserviceindia.com\/Legal-Articles\/duties-of-employees-regarding-workplace-safety-under-the-occupational-safety-health-and-working-conditions-code-2020\/#51_Consumer_Education_and_Research_Centre_v_Union_of_India_1995_3_SCC_42\" >5.1 Consumer Education and Research Centre v. Union of India (1995) 3 SCC 42<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-14\" href=\"https:\/\/www.legalserviceindia.com\/Legal-Articles\/duties-of-employees-regarding-workplace-safety-under-the-occupational-safety-health-and-working-conditions-code-2020\/#52_MC_Mehta_v_Union_of_India_Oleum_Gas_Leak_Case_1987_1_SCC_395\" >5.2 M.C. Mehta v. Union of India (Oleum Gas Leak Case) (1987) 1 SCC 395<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-15\" href=\"https:\/\/www.legalserviceindia.com\/Legal-Articles\/duties-of-employees-regarding-workplace-safety-under-the-occupational-safety-health-and-working-conditions-code-2020\/#53_JK_Industries_Ltd_v_Chief_Inspector_of_Factories_and_Boilers_1996_6_SCC_665\" >5.3 J.K. Industries Ltd. v. Chief Inspector of Factories and Boilers (1996) 6 SCC 665<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-16\" href=\"https:\/\/www.legalserviceindia.com\/Legal-Articles\/duties-of-employees-regarding-workplace-safety-under-the-occupational-safety-health-and-working-conditions-code-2020\/#Important_International_Case_Laws_on_Workplace_Safety\" >Important International Case Laws on Workplace Safety<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-17\" href=\"https:\/\/www.legalserviceindia.com\/Legal-Articles\/duties-of-employees-regarding-workplace-safety-under-the-occupational-safety-health-and-working-conditions-code-2020\/#Employers_Duties_and_Employees_Duties_A_Necessary_Distinction\" >Employer\u2019s Duties and Employee\u2019s Duties: A Necessary Distinction<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-18\" href=\"https:\/\/www.legalserviceindia.com\/Legal-Articles\/duties-of-employees-regarding-workplace-safety-under-the-occupational-safety-health-and-working-conditions-code-2020\/#Consequences_of_Failure_to_Perform_Safety_Duties\" >Consequences of Failure to Perform Safety Duties<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-19\" href=\"https:\/\/www.legalserviceindia.com\/Legal-Articles\/duties-of-employees-regarding-workplace-safety-under-the-occupational-safety-health-and-working-conditions-code-2020\/#Practical_Measures_Employees_Should_Follow\" >Practical Measures Employees Should Follow<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-20\" href=\"https:\/\/www.legalserviceindia.com\/Legal-Articles\/duties-of-employees-regarding-workplace-safety-under-the-occupational-safety-health-and-working-conditions-code-2020\/#Conclusion\" >Conclusion<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/nav><\/div>\n\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">In India, the principal law on this subject is the Occupational Safety, Health and Working Conditions Code, 2020 (OSHWC Code). The Code came into force on 21 November 2025 and consolidates several earlier central labour laws dealing with occupational safety, health and working conditions.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Section 13 of the Code sets out the duties of employees, while Section 14 confers important rights linked to workplace safety. Together, these provisions seek to prevent accidents, occupational diseases and avoidable risks at work.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 id=\"h-statutory-duties-of-employees-under-section-13\" class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Statutory_Duties_of_Employees_Under_Section_13\"><\/span>Statutory Duties of Employees Under Section 13<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Section 13 requires every employee at the workplace to follow these duties:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 id=\"h-2-1-duty-to-take-reasonable-care\" class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"21_Duty_to_Take_Reasonable_Care\"><\/span>2.1 Duty to Take Reasonable Care<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">An employee must take reasonable care of his or her own health and safety, and of others who may be affected by his or her actions or omissions.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Example:<\/strong> A person operating a machine must follow safe procedures and must not do anything that could injure a colleague. Hazardous materials must not be left where others might come into contact with them.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 id=\"h-2-2-duty-to-follow-safety-standards\" class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"22_Duty_to_Follow_Safety_Standards\"><\/span>2.2 Duty to Follow Safety Standards<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Employees must comply with the applicable occupational safety and health standards, rules and requirements. These include:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Wearing prescribed personal protective equipment (PPE) such as helmets, gloves, goggles and safety shoes.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Following machinery operating procedures and electrical safety instructions.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Obeying fire safety and emergency evacuation rules.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Handling, storing and disposing of hazardous substances correctly.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Example:<\/strong> A worker dealing with toxic chemicals must use the required protective gear and follow the prescribed handling methods.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 id=\"h-2-3-duty-to-cooperate-with-the-employer\" class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"23_Duty_to_Cooperate_with_the_Employer\"><\/span>2.3 Duty to Cooperate with the Employer<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Employees must cooperate with the employer so that the employer can meet legal obligations under the Code. This includes attending safety training, taking part in safety programmes, following lawful safety instructions, and helping implement preventive measures.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Example:<\/strong> An employee should cooperate during a safety inspection and give accurate information about any hazard.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 id=\"h-2-4-duty-to-report-unsafe-or-unhealthy-conditions\" class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"24_Duty_to_Report_Unsafe_or_Unhealthy_Conditions\"><\/span>2.4 Duty to Report Unsafe or Unhealthy Conditions<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">If an employee notices an unsafe or unhealthy situation, he or she must report it as soon as practicable to the employer or the health and safety representative. Special reporting rules apply in mines.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Common examples include:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Exposed electrical wires<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Defective machinery or damaged safety guards<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Gas leaks or chemical spills<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Poor ventilation or excessive exposure to harmful substances<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Unsafe scaffolding or risk of structural collapse<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Prompt and clear reporting allows the employer to correct the problem before an accident occurs. Employees should use the workplace\u2019s formal reporting system where one exists.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 id=\"h-2-5-duty-not-to-misuse-safety-equipment\" class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"25_Duty_Not_to_Misuse_Safety_Equipment\"><\/span>2.5 Duty Not to Misuse Safety Equipment<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Employees must not wilfully interfere with, misuse or neglect any equipment or facilities provided for health, safety and welfare.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Examples of prohibited acts:<\/strong> Removing a machine guard, disabling an alarm, damaging a fire extinguisher, or misusing a respirator. Such actions can put many people at serious risk.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Safety equipment must be used properly, looked after as instructed, and reported if defective.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 id=\"h-2-6-duty-not-to-endanger-oneself-or-others\" class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"26_Duty_Not_to_Endanger_Oneself_or_Others\"><\/span>2.6 Duty Not to Endanger Oneself or Others<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">An employee must not wilfully do anything, without reasonable cause, that is likely to endanger himself, herself or others.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Examples:<\/strong> Operating machinery recklessly, bypassing a safety interlock, entering a restricted hazardous area without permission, or ignoring a known risk that could cause injury.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 id=\"h-2-7-other-prescribed-duties\" class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"27_Other_Prescribed_Duties\"><\/span>2.7 Other Prescribed Duties<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Employees must also perform any other duties that the appropriate government may prescribe. This means they must follow rules and lawful safety requirements made under the Code for their industry or workplace.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 id=\"h-rights-of-employees-relating-to-workplace-safety-under-section-14\" class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Rights_of_Employees_Relating_to_Workplace_Safety_Under_Section_14\"><\/span>Rights of Employees Relating to Workplace Safety Under Section 14<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Duties go hand-in-hand with rights. Section 14 of the Occupational Safety, Health and Working Conditions Code, 2020 gives employees these important protections:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Right to safety information<\/strong> \u2013 Employees can obtain information from the employer about health and safety at work.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Right to raise safety concerns<\/strong> \u2013 They may approach the employer or a Safety Committee member (where one exists) about inadequate safety arrangements. If still dissatisfied, they may approach the Inspector-cum-Facilitator.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Right to report imminent danger<\/strong> \u2013 If employees reasonably fear an imminent danger of serious injury, death or serious threat to health, they may notify the employer and also inform the Inspector-cum-Facilitator.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Right to remedial action<\/strong> \u2013 Once the imminent danger is established, the employer must take immediate corrective action. If the employer disputes the existence of the danger, the matter must be referred to the Inspector-cum-Facilitator, whose decision is final.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">These rights make it clear that employees are not only expected to follow safety instructions. They are also entitled to raise concerns and seek official intervention when their lives or health are at risk.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 id=\"h-penalties-and-liabilities-for-violation-of-sections-13-and-14\" class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Penalties_and_Liabilities_for_Violation_of_Sections_13_and_14\"><\/span>Penalties and Liabilities for Violation of Sections 13 and 14<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Under Section 106 of the OSHWC Code, 2020, an employee who contravenes any duty imposed under Section 13 (except clause (d) relating to the duty to report unsafe conditions) may be punished with a fine of up to \u20b910,000. If the employee is convicted, the employer is not automatically held liable unless it is proved that the employer failed to take reasonable steps to prevent the violation.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Section 14, on the other hand, only confers rights on employees and imposes no duties on them; therefore, no penalty applies to workers under this section. However, if an employer fails to honour these rights\u2014such as by withholding safety information or not acting on a reported imminent danger\u2014the employer may face penalties under the general provisions of the Code, with higher fines and possible imprisonment if such failure results in a workplace accident or injury.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 id=\"h-important-case-laws-on-workplace-safety\" class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Important_Case_Laws_on_Workplace_Safety\"><\/span>Important Case Laws on Workplace Safety<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The following Supreme Court decisions set out broad principles that remain relevant to workplace safety. They were decided under earlier laws or constitutional provisions and should not be treated as direct interpretations of Section 13 of the new Code.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 id=\"h-5-1-consumer-education-and-research-centre-v-union-of-india-1995-3-scc-42\" class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"51_Consumer_Education_and_Research_Centre_v_Union_of_India_1995_3_SCC_42\"><\/span>5.1 Consumer Education and Research Centre v. Union of India (1995) 3 SCC 42<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The Court examined health risks faced by asbestos workers. It held that the right to health and medical care forms part of the fundamental right to life under Article 21. Workers must be protected from occupational diseases and hazardous conditions.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Relevance:<\/strong> Employees should take reasonable care of their health, use protective equipment and report exposure to harmful substances. Employers must provide proper safeguards and medical protection.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 id=\"h-5-2-m-c-mehta-v-union-of-india-oleum-gas-leak-case-1987-1-scc-395\" class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"52_MC_Mehta_v_Union_of_India_Oleum_Gas_Leak_Case_1987_1_SCC_395\"><\/span>5.2 M.C. Mehta v. Union of India (Oleum Gas Leak Case) (1987) 1 SCC 395<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">After an oleum gas leak from a hazardous unit in Delhi, the Court laid down the principle of absolute liability for enterprises engaged in hazardous or inherently dangerous activities.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Relevance:<\/strong> Employees must follow prescribed precautions, handle dangerous substances carefully and report leaks or similar hazards at once. Absolute liability primarily applies to the enterprise, not automatically to every individual employee.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 id=\"h-5-3-j-k-industries-ltd-v-chief-inspector-of-factories-and-boilers-1996-6-scc-665\" class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"53_JK_Industries_Ltd_v_Chief_Inspector_of_Factories_and_Boilers_1996_6_SCC_665\"><\/span>5.3 J.K. Industries Ltd. v. Chief Inspector of Factories and Boilers (1996) 6 SCC 665<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The Court stressed the importance of clear accountability of the occupier of a factory under the Factories Act and rejected arrangements that allowed those in ultimate control to escape responsibility.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Relevance:<\/strong> Safety is a shared practical responsibility, but an employee\u2019s duties do not relieve the employer or occupier of their independent legal obligations. Management cannot shift its statutory duties onto ordinary workers.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 id=\"h-important-international-case-laws-on-workplace-safety\" class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Important_International_Case_Laws_on_Workplace_Safety\"><\/span>Important International Case Laws on Workplace Safety<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Landmark international judgments\u2014including Wilsons and Clyde Coal Co Ltd v English (1938), Paris v Stepney Borough Council (1951), Latimer v AEC Ltd (1953), and Whirlpool Corp. v. Marshall (1980)\u2014collectively establish that while employees must act carefully and report hazards, the primary legal responsibility for creating and maintaining a safe workplace rests with the employer.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Together, these rulings affirm that employers hold a personal, non-delegable duty to provide proper equipment, competent staff, effective supervision, and safe systems of work, including taking heightened precautions for vulnerable individuals and respecting workers&#8217; rights to refuse imminently dangerous tasks without retaliation; however, this standard mandates taking all reasonably practicable precautions rather than serving as an absolute guarantee against every potential harm.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 id=\"h-employer-s-duties-and-employee-s-duties-a-necessary-distinction\" class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Employers_Duties_and_Employees_Duties_A_Necessary_Distinction\"><\/span>Employer\u2019s Duties and Employee\u2019s Duties: A Necessary Distinction<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The Code places duties on both sides, but the responsibilities are different:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-table\"><table class=\"has-fixed-layout\"><thead><tr><th>Employer\u2019s Responsibilities<\/th><th>Employee\u2019s Responsibilities<\/th><\/tr><\/thead><tbody><tr><td>Provide a workplace that is reasonably safe and free from relevant hazards<\/td><td>Take reasonable care to avoid danger to oneself and others<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Provide necessary safety information, instruction, training and supervision<\/td><td>Follow safety instructions and applicable standards<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Maintain machinery, protective arrangements and working conditions<\/td><td>Use safety equipment properly and do not misuse protective devices<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Take appropriate action on reported hazards<\/td><td>Report unsafe or unhealthy conditions promptly<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Fulfil statutory health and safety obligations<\/td><td>Cooperate with the employer in meeting those obligations<\/td><\/tr><\/tbody><\/table><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">An employee\u2019s failure to follow safety procedures may contribute to an accident, but it does not automatically free the employer from responsibility for defective machinery, inadequate training or other failures within the employer\u2019s control.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 id=\"h-consequences-of-failure-to-perform-safety-duties\" class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Consequences_of_Failure_to_Perform_Safety_Duties\"><\/span>Consequences of Failure to Perform Safety Duties<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Failure to follow safety requirements may lead to disciplinary action under service rules or employment terms. If the conduct amounts to an offence under the Code or other law, the relevant legal provisions may apply.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Not every breach automatically attracts criminal liability. The specific facts, the applicable section, the legal ingredients and the evidence must all be examined.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">An employee who reports a genuine safety hazard is exercising a statutory right and should not be treated as having committed misconduct merely for raising a legitimate concern.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 id=\"h-practical-measures-employees-should-follow\" class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Practical_Measures_Employees_Should_Follow\"><\/span>Practical Measures Employees Should Follow<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Employees can help create a safer workplace by:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Attending safety training and understanding emergency procedures<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Using prescribed PPE and checking it before use<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Never bypassing machine guards or disabling safety alarms<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Reporting accidents, near-misses and dangerous conditions promptly<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Avoiding unauthorised operation of machinery or hazardous equipment<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Keeping work areas clean and emergency exits clear<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Cooperating with safety officers, supervisors and safety committees<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Raising concerns about serious or imminent danger through the channels provided by law<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">These simple practices help prevent injuries and build a culture of shared responsibility.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 id=\"h-conclusion\" class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Conclusion\"><\/span>Conclusion<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Section 13 of the Occupational Safety, Health and Working Conditions Code, 2020 requires employees to take reasonable care, follow safety standards, cooperate with employers, report unsafe conditions, protect safety equipment and refrain from wilfully endangering themselves or others.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Section 14 balances these duties by giving employees clear rights to information, representation and intervention when danger is imminent.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Supreme Court decisions in Consumer Education and Research Centre, M.C. Mehta and J.K. Industries reinforce the broader principles that workers\u2019 health deserves strong legal protection and that safety obligations must be enforced effectively.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">A safe workplace needs responsible employees, accountable employers and proper enforcement of the law. Employee cooperation is essential, but it works alongside the employer\u2019s independent duty to provide safe and healthy working conditions.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Legal note:<\/strong> This article discusses the central OSHWC Code, 2020. For a formal legal opinion, compliance policy or court filing, the applicable central and state rules, notifications and later judicial decisions should also be checked.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-yoast-seo-related-links yoast-seo-related-links\">\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.legalserviceindia.com\/Legal-Articles\/health-and-safety-in-the-workplace-employer-mandates-under-indian-labour-law\/\">Health and Safety in the workplace: Employer Mandates under Indian Labour Law<\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.legalserviceindia.com\/Legal-Articles\/the-new-architecture-of-work-evaluating-indias-labour-code-reforms\/\">The New Architecture of Work: Evaluating India\u2019s Labour Code Reforms<\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.legalserviceindia.com\/Legal-Articles\/workplace-surveillance-in-the-post-digital-personal-data-protection-dpdp-act-2023-era-reconciling-legitimate-employer-interests-with-employee-right-to-privacy\/\">Workplace Surveillance in the Post-Digital Personal Data Protection (DPDP) Act, 2023 Era: Reconciling Legitimate Employer Interests with Employee Right to Privacy<\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.legalserviceindia.com\/Legal-Articles\/can-company-terminate-employee-pending-498a-domestic-violence-case-india\/\">Can a Company Terminate an Employee for a Pending 498A or Domestic Violence Case in India?<\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.legalserviceindia.com\/Legal-Articles\/from-bandhua-mukti-morcha-to-the-osh-code-2020-four-decades-of-unresolved-quarry-and-mine-labour-exploitation-in-india\/\">From Bandhua Mukti Morcha to the OSH Code 2020: Four Decades of Unresolved Quarry and Mine Labour Exploitation in India<\/a><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Introduction Workplace safety is a core part of labour welfare. It is not the responsibility of the employer alone. Every employee must also work safely, follow safety rules, protect co-workers and report dangers. In India, the principal law on this subject is the Occupational Safety, Health and Working Conditions Code, 2020 (OSHWC Code). The Code<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":49,"featured_media":0,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_bbp_topic_count":0,"_bbp_reply_count":0,"_bbp_total_topic_count":0,"_bbp_total_reply_count":0,"_bbp_voice_count":0,"_bbp_anonymous_reply_count":0,"_bbp_forum_subforum_count":0,"_jetpack_newsletter_access":"","_jetpack_dont_email_post_to_subs":false,"_jetpack_newsletter_tier_id":0,"_jetpack_memberships_contains_paywalled_content":false,"two_page_speed":[],"_jetpack_memberships_contains_paid_content":false,"_joinchat":[],"footnotes":""},"categories":[4766],"tags":[774],"class_list":["post-34273","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","category-labour-law","tag-labour-law"],"yoast_head":"<!-- This site is optimized with the Yoast SEO Premium plugin v28.6 (Yoast SEO v28.7) - https:\/\/yoast.com\/product\/yoast-seo-premium-wordpress\/ -->\n<title>Duties of Employees Regarding Workplace Safety under the Occupational Safety, Health and Working Conditions Code, 2020 - Legal Service India - Articles<\/title>\n<meta name=\"description\" content=\"Understand employee duties, workplace safety rights, penalties and employer responsibilities under Sections 13 and 14 of India&#039;s OSHWC Code, 2020.\" \/>\n<meta name=\"robots\" content=\"index, follow, max-snippet:-1, max-image-preview:large, max-video-preview:-1\" \/>\n<link rel=\"canonical\" href=\"https:\/\/www.legalserviceindia.com\/Legal-Articles\/duties-of-employees-regarding-workplace-safety-under-the-occupational-safety-health-and-working-conditions-code-2020\/\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:locale\" content=\"en_US\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:type\" content=\"article\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:title\" content=\"Duties of Employees Regarding Workplace Safety under the Occupational Safety, Health and Working Conditions Code, 2020\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:description\" content=\"Understand employee duties, workplace safety rights, penalties and employer responsibilities under Sections 13 and 14 of India&#039;s OSHWC Code, 2020.\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:url\" content=\"https:\/\/www.legalserviceindia.com\/Legal-Articles\/duties-of-employees-regarding-workplace-safety-under-the-occupational-safety-health-and-working-conditions-code-2020\/\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:site_name\" content=\"Legal Service India - Articles\" \/>\n<meta property=\"article:publisher\" content=\"https:\/\/www.facebook.com\/legalservicesind\" \/>\n<meta property=\"article:published_time\" content=\"2026-10-16T10:41:05+00:00\" \/>\n<meta property=\"article:modified_time\" content=\"2026-10-16T10:46:01+00:00\" \/>\n<meta name=\"author\" content=\"Md. 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Law Articles\",\"description\":\"Legal Service India - Law Article Directory is the oldest in India since 2000, with thousands of article written by lawyers, law Students and Scholars on all branches of law\",\"publisher\":{\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/www.legalserviceindia.com\\\/Legal-Articles\\\/#organization\"},\"potentialAction\":[{\"@type\":\"SearchAction\",\"target\":{\"@type\":\"EntryPoint\",\"urlTemplate\":\"https:\\\/\\\/www.legalserviceindia.com\\\/Legal-Articles\\\/?s={search_term_string}\"},\"query-input\":{\"@type\":\"PropertyValueSpecification\",\"valueRequired\":true,\"valueName\":\"search_term_string\"}}],\"inLanguage\":\"en-US\"},{\"@type\":\"Organization\",\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/www.legalserviceindia.com\\\/Legal-Articles\\\/#organization\",\"name\":\"Legal Service India\",\"url\":\"https:\\\/\\\/www.legalserviceindia.com\\\/Legal-Articles\\\/\",\"logo\":{\"@type\":\"ImageObject\",\"inLanguage\":\"en-US\",\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/www.legalserviceindia.com\\\/Legal-Articles\\\/#\\\/schema\\\/logo\\\/image\\\/\",\"url\":\"https:\\\/\\\/www.legalserviceindia.com\\\/Legal-Articles\\\/wp-content\\\/uploads\\\/2025\\\/06\\\/logo-circle-1.png\",\"contentUrl\":\"https:\\\/\\\/www.legalserviceindia.com\\\/Legal-Articles\\\/wp-content\\\/uploads\\\/2025\\\/06\\\/logo-circle-1.png\",\"width\":105,\"height\":95,\"caption\":\"Legal Service India\"},\"image\":{\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/www.legalserviceindia.com\\\/Legal-Articles\\\/#\\\/schema\\\/logo\\\/image\\\/\"},\"sameAs\":[\"https:\\\/\\\/www.facebook.com\\\/legalservicesind\",\"https:\\\/\\\/x.com\\\/legalserviceind\",\"https:\\\/\\\/www.youtube.com\\\/@LegalServiceIndia-lsi\"]},{\"@type\":\"Person\",\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/www.legalserviceindia.com\\\/Legal-Articles\\\/#\\\/schema\\\/person\\\/23f17916b2032842e5ccd9cb51dfc156\",\"name\":\"Md. Imran Wahab\",\"image\":{\"@type\":\"ImageObject\",\"inLanguage\":\"en-US\",\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/www.legalserviceindia.com\\\/Legal-Articles\\\/wp-content\\\/uploads\\\/avatars\\\/49\\\/1777837060-bpfull.jpg\",\"url\":\"https:\\\/\\\/www.legalserviceindia.com\\\/Legal-Articles\\\/wp-content\\\/uploads\\\/avatars\\\/49\\\/1777837060-bpfull.jpg\",\"contentUrl\":\"https:\\\/\\\/www.legalserviceindia.com\\\/Legal-Articles\\\/wp-content\\\/uploads\\\/avatars\\\/49\\\/1777837060-bpfull.jpg\",\"caption\":\"Md. Imran Wahab\"},\"description\":\"Md. Imran Wahab, a distinguished 2004-batch Indian Police Service officer, has dedicated over 32 years to public service, holding various senior managerial positions within the West Bengal Police force. His career has spanned diverse roles across different districts, including Kolkata Police, serving as DCP, 5th Battalion, Kolkata Armed Police and DCP (Port Division), for approximately 4 years. He served in Barrackpore Police Commissionerate, holding the positions of DCP (Special Branch) and DCP (Traffic) for over 4 years. He was posted in the districts of Dakshin Dinajpur and Nadia as Additional SP. At the sub-divisional level, he has worked as SDPOs of Gangarampur, Raghunathpur and Kalna sub-divisions of West Bengal. His tenure as Special IG and subsequently as IGP of Correctional Services, West Bengal, for over 4 years, saw him deeply engaged in improving the prison and correctional system. He visited numerous correctional homes across West Bengal, interacting with inmates, both male and female, including children residing with their incarcerated mothers. His outreach extended to correctional homes in Assam, Bihar, and Tripura. This hands-on approach provided him with invaluable insights into the workings of prisons and the complexities of the prisoner psyche. Beyond his operational roles, Md. Imran Wahab possesses a strong academic background, holding B.Sc., M.A., L.L.B., and M.B.A. degrees. He has also completed Post Graduate Diplomas in Human Rights, Project Management, Corporate Management, Computer Application, Public Administration, Medical Law, Disaster Management, Fire Safety &amp; Hazards Management and Psychology. He has attended Indian government sponsored specialized training in police and management matters in SVPNPA, Hyderabad, IIM, Ahmedabad and Singapore. He is the author of the books 'Police Investigation &amp; Allied Matters' and 'Alternative Dispute Resolution: Evolving Trends and Innovations' demonstrating his commitment to knowledge sharing within the law enforcement field. As an observer for the Election Commission of India, he has gained firsthand experience in conducting assembly elections and bye-elections in Uttar Pradesh, Rajasthan, Assam, Bihar, and Tripura (twice). This exposure has given him a deep understanding of election management and the Election Commission's operations. He has also served as Chairman and as a member of various recruitment boards for the selection of police personnel in Kolkata Police and West Bengal Police. Md. Imran Wahab's interests extend beyond law enforcement to include law, politics, international affairs, prison management, and business management. He has authored over 1000 articles on these diverse topics, reflecting his intellectual curiosity and desire to contribute to public discourse. 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Imran Wahab","image":{"@type":"ImageObject","inLanguage":"en-US","@id":"https:\/\/www.legalserviceindia.com\/Legal-Articles\/wp-content\/uploads\/avatars\/49\/1777837060-bpfull.jpg","url":"https:\/\/www.legalserviceindia.com\/Legal-Articles\/wp-content\/uploads\/avatars\/49\/1777837060-bpfull.jpg","contentUrl":"https:\/\/www.legalserviceindia.com\/Legal-Articles\/wp-content\/uploads\/avatars\/49\/1777837060-bpfull.jpg","caption":"Md. Imran Wahab"},"description":"Md. Imran Wahab, a distinguished 2004-batch Indian Police Service officer, has dedicated over 32 years to public service, holding various senior managerial positions within the West Bengal Police force. His career has spanned diverse roles across different districts, including Kolkata Police, serving as DCP, 5th Battalion, Kolkata Armed Police and DCP (Port Division), for approximately 4 years. He served in Barrackpore Police Commissionerate, holding the positions of DCP (Special Branch) and DCP (Traffic) for over 4 years. He was posted in the districts of Dakshin Dinajpur and Nadia as Additional SP. At the sub-divisional level, he has worked as SDPOs of Gangarampur, Raghunathpur and Kalna sub-divisions of West Bengal. His tenure as Special IG and subsequently as IGP of Correctional Services, West Bengal, for over 4 years, saw him deeply engaged in improving the prison and correctional system. He visited numerous correctional homes across West Bengal, interacting with inmates, both male and female, including children residing with their incarcerated mothers. His outreach extended to correctional homes in Assam, Bihar, and Tripura. This hands-on approach provided him with invaluable insights into the workings of prisons and the complexities of the prisoner psyche. Beyond his operational roles, Md. Imran Wahab possesses a strong academic background, holding B.Sc., M.A., L.L.B., and M.B.A. degrees. He has also completed Post Graduate Diplomas in Human Rights, Project Management, Corporate Management, Computer Application, Public Administration, Medical Law, Disaster Management, Fire Safety &amp; Hazards Management and Psychology. He has attended Indian government sponsored specialized training in police and management matters in SVPNPA, Hyderabad, IIM, Ahmedabad and Singapore. He is the author of the books 'Police Investigation &amp; Allied Matters' and 'Alternative Dispute Resolution: Evolving Trends and Innovations' demonstrating his commitment to knowledge sharing within the law enforcement field. As an observer for the Election Commission of India, he has gained firsthand experience in conducting assembly elections and bye-elections in Uttar Pradesh, Rajasthan, Assam, Bihar, and Tripura (twice). This exposure has given him a deep understanding of election management and the Election Commission's operations. He has also served as Chairman and as a member of various recruitment boards for the selection of police personnel in Kolkata Police and West Bengal Police. Md. Imran Wahab's interests extend beyond law enforcement to include law, politics, international affairs, prison management, and business management. He has authored over 1000 articles on these diverse topics, reflecting his intellectual curiosity and desire to contribute to public discourse. He is also a research scholar in law and has contributed articles to the Indian Police Journal, National Crime Record Bureau Journal, SVP National Police Academy Journal, and International Journal for Multidisciplinary Research etc. Currently, he serves as IGP, Provisioning, West Bengal.","url":"https:\/\/www.legalserviceindia.com\/Legal-Articles\/author\/md-imranwahab\/"}]}},"jetpack_sharing_enabled":true,"jetpack_featured_media_url":"","_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.legalserviceindia.com\/Legal-Articles\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/34273","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.legalserviceindia.com\/Legal-Articles\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.legalserviceindia.com\/Legal-Articles\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.legalserviceindia.com\/Legal-Articles\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/49"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.legalserviceindia.com\/Legal-Articles\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=34273"}],"version-history":[{"count":2,"href":"https:\/\/www.legalserviceindia.com\/Legal-Articles\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/34273\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":34329,"href":"https:\/\/www.legalserviceindia.com\/Legal-Articles\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/34273\/revisions\/34329"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.legalserviceindia.com\/Legal-Articles\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=34273"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.legalserviceindia.com\/Legal-Articles\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=34273"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.legalserviceindia.com\/Legal-Articles\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=34273"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}