February 01, Colombo (LNW): Women aged 18 and above will now be allowed to work night shifts in hospitality and food-related industries following the issuance of a special gazette introducing revised labour regulations.
The changes, formalised through an extraordinary gazette dated January 30, update existing provisions under employment laws governing shops and offices. The revised rules widen the categories of workplaces where women may be engaged during night hours, reflecting the round-the-clock nature of modern service industries.
Under the new framework, eligible female employees may work between 6.00 p.m. and 6.00 a.m. in establishments such as hotels, restaurants, food and beverage outlets and similar businesses. However, the permission comes with firm conditions designed to protect workers from potential risks associated with night-time employment.
Employers are placed under full responsibility for the health, safety and general welfare of women working these hours. This includes providing suitable accommodation until 6.00 a.m. after a shift ends, or ensuring secure transport to the employee’s home when duties conclude during the night.
The regulations also stress the need for a safe and secure working environment, with particular attention to protection during late hours. Authorities say the amendments are intended to balance the evolving needs of the hospitality sector with strong safeguards for female workers.
The revised provisions were introduced under powers granted by the relevant labour legislation and were issued by the Minister of Labour, Dr Anil Jayantha Fernando.
