The Government of Karnataka on January 23, 2026, issued the Occupational Safety, Health and Working Conditions (Karnataka) Rules, 2026.
The following has been stated:
• The draft rules aim to operationalise the Occupational Safety, Health and Working Conditions Code, 2020 in Karnataka by laying down a comprehensive framework for registration, welfare, safety, and working conditions of workers.
• They provide for common electronic registration and licensing of establishments, enhanced health and safety standards, mandatory risk assessment, medical examinations and safety audits, and clear obligations on employers for welfare facilities such as drinking water, sanitation, canteens, crèche,s and first-aid.
• Special provisions have been included for inter-State migrant workers, contract labour, women workers, and gig/platform workers, along with simplified compliance through digital registers, returns, and inspections.
• The draft also strengthens enforcement mechanisms, prescribes penalties for non-compliance, and promotes ease of doing business while ensuring worker protection.
• Objections and suggestions may be addressed to the Secretary to Government, Labour Department, Vikasa Soudha, Dr. B.R. Ambedkar Veedhi, Bengaluru, by March 04, 2026.
[Notification no. - LD 245 LET 2021]
