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What’s new in Occupational Safety with India’s Labor Codes?

Ready for 2026? Here’s How India’s Labor Codes Boost Workplace Safety

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Hey there,

Before we dive into the holiday season, here’s a quick heads-up about workplace safety.

Thanks to the new Labor Codes rolled out this year, there are fresh rules and protections to keep workers safer and healthier.

Let’s break down what that means for you and your team.

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🧠What’s the Occupational Safety, Health & Working Conditions (OSH & WC) Code, 2020 All About?

Think of the OSH Code as the new safety rulebook for every workplace in India. It combines lots of old rules into one easy-to-understand law focused on keeping workers safe and healthy.

Here’s the gist from experts at KPMG and the British Safety Council India:

  • Employers are expected to spot workplace risks early — like unsafe equipment, unhealthy work conditions, long hours, or safety lapses — and fix them before they turn into accidents, health issues, or legal problems.

  • Workplaces need safety committees where workers and bosses team up to keep things safe.

  • There are rules for regular health check-ups and safety training so everyone knows what to do in emergencies.

  • This code also covers gig workers — those working on apps or freelance — so they get safety protection too.

  • Overall, it’s about making workplaces better and safer for all workers, not just those in big factories.

🧠What Does This Mean for HR Folks?

Here’s the scoop for HR teams across India:

  • Get safety committees going! Bring employees and managers together to talk safety.

  • Keep track of safety checks and drills. Paperwork is important here — but it keeps everyone safe.

  • Train your people! Make sure everyone knows how to spot risks and stay safe.

  • Don’t forget gig workers! Make sure they’re covered with the same safety rules.

  • Look after health. Help organize regular health check-ups and wellness programs.

By doing these, you’re not just following the law — you’re building a safer, happier workplace where everyone feels cared for.

What Should HR Do Next?

  1. Check your current safety rules — update them if needed to match the new code.

  2. Talk to your safety experts or legal team — see what’s new and what needs to change.

  3. Train your managers and employees so everyone’s in the loop.

  4. Keep your workers informed — clear communication helps everyone stay safe.

  5. Stay updated — laws and rules can keep evolving, so keep an eye out!

Got more Questions? We’ve Got Answers!

We know these new Labor Codes come with a lot of details, and it can be tricky to figure out exactly what’s changed and how it affects your workplace.

That’s why we’ve put together a handy FAQ section just for HR and PeopleOps pros like you.

It breaks down the most common questions, clears up any confusion, and helps you navigate the new rules with confidence.

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🫂Feels Like Forever Let’s Hang Out Again! Join the TSOW HR Meetups Across India

It honestly feels like ages since we all got together, right?

Well, it’s time to fix that! We’re hosting a series of TSOW HR Meetups across the country, and we want you there.

Expect great conversations, fresh ideas, and a chance to catch up with your fellow HR pros — plus, you’ll earn a cool digital badge to show off that you were part of the fun!

Here’s where we’re hanging out next:

TSOW HR Meetup in Pune, Sunday, January 18

Join an inspiring group of HR leaders for a morning of meaningful conversations, practical insights, and new connections. Leave with actionable takeaways—and a digital badge to show you were part of it. Seats are limited—reserve yours today!

TSOW HR Meetup in Chennai, Saturday, January 31

Hang out with HR peers, swap insights, and leave inspired with actionable strategies. Oh, and there’s a digital badge for bragging rights! Limited seats—grab yours before they’re gone.

TSOW HR Meetup in Delhi, Saturday, February 7

Connect with an incredible community of HR professionals, exchange real-world insights, and walk away with renewed clarity and confidence and of course — your digital badge awaits! Seats are limited — save your spot now!

TSOW HR Meetup in Mumbai, Saturday, February 14

Join a vibrant community of HR professionals for an engaging morning full of real-world insights and meaningful conversations. Leave with fresh ideas, new connections, and your digital badge to mark the occasion. Reserve your spot today!

TSOW HR Meetup in Hyderabad, Saturday, February 21

Connect with fellow HR leaders, exchange practical knowledge, and gain renewed confidence to tackle workplace challenges. Plus, earn your digital badge as a token of your participation. Limited seats — don’t miss out!

TSOW HR Meetup in Bhubaneswar, Saturday, March 7

Connect with an incredible community of HR professionals, exchange real-world insights, and walk away with renewed clarity and confidence and of course — your digital badge awaits! Save your spot now!

That’s a wrap for now!

Keeping workplaces safe is a team effort, and these new Labor Codes give us a great chance to make real improvements.

If you want help with checklists, training ideas, or easy-to-use templates, just give us a shout.

Here’s to a safer, healthier 2026 for you and your teams!

— Team TSOW