no health records?

you are likely to be fined...

June 25, 2025

Hey,

If you manage a warehouse or run retail ops, you’ve probably already heard about the OSH Code 2020.

But between running peak shifts and handling backorders, compliance isn't always top of the list. And yet, this one’s different.

Because it’s enforceable, and businesses like yours are already paying the price.

As per Section 6 and 23 of the OSH Code, here’s what you need to implement by July 2025:

If you’re thinking, “We’ll figure it out later,” consider this: the Act allows fines up to ₹5L, imprisonment up to 2 years, and license suspensions in case of serious violations

Short answer: yes.

And not quietly.

Here’s what we’ve seen in the last 12 months:

Here’s what standard compliance costs look like for smaller businesses:

This is exactly what we solve — without derailing operations or crushing budgets.

If this compliance stuff has been sitting in your “do it later” pile — this is your nudge.

We’ll run a quick audit and show you exactly where your risks are — no strings attached.

1. Who exactly needs to follow these rules?

Any establishment with 10 or more workers — including retail stores, warehouses, kitchens, and even dark stores. This also includes contract and platform (gig) workers.

2. Do part-time workers or seasonal hires count?

Yes. If they’re on your shift plan or payroll (even temporarily), you’re liable for their health screening.

3. Are digital records mandatory even if I already have paper files?

Yes. After July 31, 2025, only digital uploads to state labor portals will be accepted under OSH. Inspectors may ask for login access during audits.

4. What tests are legally required in a warehouse or retail setting?

  • CBC, blood sugar, blood pressure

  • Chest X-ray (for respiratory exposure)

  • Audiometry (if noise exceeds 85 dB)

  • Spirometry (for dust-heavy environments)

  • Vision tests (for drivers, forklift ops)

  • Vaccinations: Hepatitis B, Typhoid, Tetanus

  • Pre-employment screening for TB and Hepatitis B

5. What’s the rule for gig and delivery staff?

You must provide:

  • Baseline health screening

  • PM-JAY enrollment for ₹5L insurance

  • Digital medical records linked to their work ID

6. How long do I need to keep worker health records?

Minimum 3 years. Records must be retrievable, downloadable, and signed by a certified medical professional.

7. Do I need an Occupational Health Centre (OHC)?

Only if your unit employs 500+ workers or deals with hazardous processes. Otherwise, tie-ups with registered medical practitioners or approved labs are acceptable.

8. What are the penalties if I don’t comply?

  • ₹10,000 per day for record delays (after July 2025)

  • ₹5L+ for serious violations

  • Jail time up to 2 years under Section 103 of the OSH Code

9. What’s the most common reason audits fail?

Three things:

  • Expired or missing health records

  • No digitization or state portal upload

  • Inability to show disease-specific tests (TB, Hepatitis, audiometry, etc.)

10. Can a contractor be held liable instead of me?

Not entirely. Under OSH, the principal employer shares responsibility. Even if staff are sourced through an agency, the compliance onus is shared.

More clarity. Less chaos. Zero downtime.

Talk soon,
Bhanu