Web Desk — October 30, 2025
The Punjab Labour and Human Resource Department has kicked off a major drive to ensure minimum wage payments and compliance with key provisions of the Punjab Occupational Safety and Health Act 2019 (OSH Act) at workplaces across the province.
Labour teams are carrying out surprise checks at factories, workshops, and other manual labor sites to verify adherence, Director Labour Welfare (Lahore South) Nadeem Akhtar told reporters. The effort follows directives from Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif and the Labour Minister to guarantee fair pay and safe working conditions for all workers.
“This campaign brings the CM’s vision for protecting workers’ rights and improving job environments into action,” Akhtar said. He stressed that no employer will be allowed to underpay staff or compromise on safety, with strict monitoring and immediate penalties for violations.
From January to September 2025, inspectors have examined 1,330 factories. Of these, 707 were fully compliant with minimum wage rules—set at Rs37,000 per month for unskilled workers—and safety measures. However, 623 faced legal action for issues like wage shortfalls, inadequate protective gear, and poor safety standards.
The OSH Act mandates safe workplaces, proper ventilation, protective clothing, emergency plans, accident records, and worker training on hazards. Akhtar added that inspections will continue province-wide until full compliance is achieved, alongside public awareness drives and partnerships with employer groups to promote voluntary adherence.
Officials described the initiative as a testament to the government’s dedication to upholding the dignity and well-being of Punjab’s labor force
