The Employment of Women, Young Persons, and Children Act

The Employment of Women, Young Persons, and Children Act, No. 47 of 1956 (EWYPCA) is a cornerstone of Sri Lankan labor law, safeguarding the rights and well-being of women, young persons, and children in the workplace. Let's delve into some key provisions with specific numbers:

Minimum Age for Employment

  • General Minimum Age: Section 3(1) of the Act prohibits the employment of children below 15 years old in any industrial undertaking or at sea.
  • Exceptions: Section 3(2) allows for certain exceptions, permitting the employment of children between 14 and 15 years in family undertakings (businesses operated by parents or guardians) subject to specific conditions.

Restrictions on Night Work

  • Women and Young Persons: Section 2 restricts night work for women and young persons (defined as those under 18 years old) in industrial undertakings. They cannot be employed for more than 10 hours at night (between 7 pm and 7 am).
  • Exceptions: Section 3 allows exemptions for specific industries or under special circumstances with prior approval from the Commissioner of Labour.

Rest Periods for Night Workers

  • Apprentices and Trainees: Section 4 mandates a rest period of at least 7 consecutive hours for apprentices and vocational trainees employed on night work.

Record-Keeping

  • Register of Young Workers: Section 8(1) requires employers in public or private industrial undertakings to maintain a register containing the names and dates of birth of all women and young persons employed there.

Penalties for Violations

  • Fines: Section 8(2) prescribes a fine not exceeding 50 rupees for the first offense and 200 rupees for subsequent offenses for failing to maintain the required register.

Additional Protections

  • Restrictions on Children Taking Part in Entertainments: Sections 18 and 19 limit children's participation in performances or activities that could endanger their life, limb, or health.
  • Prohibition of Hazardous Work: Section 20A prohibits the employment of young persons under 18 years old in hazardous occupations.

Important Considerations

  • The EWYPCA has been amended several times since 1956. The most recent amendments were made in 2021 through the Employment of Women, Young Persons and Children (Amendment) Act, No. 2 of 2021. It's crucial to refer to the latest version for the most accurate information.
  • This Act serves as a foundation, and other labor laws and regulations might provide additional protections for women, young persons, and children in Sri Lanka.

By outlining these regulations with specific numbers, the EWYPCA aims to create a safer and fairer work environment for vulnerable groups within the Sri Lankan workforce.