factory act

In Britain, an act of Parliament which governs conditions of work, hours of labour, safety, and sanitary provision in factories and workshops.

In the 19th century legislation was progressively introduced to regulate conditions of work. The first legislation was the Health and Morals of Apprentices Act 1802. Much early legislation regulated conditions for women and children, but men were also gradually brought within the protection of the law.

In 1833 the first factory inspectors were appointed. Legislation was extended to offices, shops, and railway premises in 1963. All employees are now covered by the Health and Safety at Work Act 1974, which is enforced by the Health and Safety Executive.