Section 2 of DWSHWA : Section 2: Definitions

Explanation using Example

Imagine a scenario where a large shipping company is operating at a major port in India. This company is responsible for loading and unloading cargo from incoming and outgoing vessels. The central government, being the "appropriate Government" for this major port, sets safety regulations that the company must follow. One day, an inspector, known as the "Chief Inspector" of Dock Safety, visits the port to ensure compliance with these safety standards during "dock work".

The "dock work" includes a team of workers chipping away old paint from a ship's hull and repainting it to prevent rust. These workers are classified as "dock workers" and are employed through a contractor. In this case, the shipping company is the "principal employer" as the work is carried out in connection with the company's operations. The contractor who directly hired the dock workers is considered the "employer".

If the Chief Inspector finds a violation of the safety regulations, or "regulations" as defined by the Act, the shipping company as the principal employer could be held accountable for ensuring that the contractor rectifies the situation and complies with the required safety standards.