1. Factory Acts: The first Factory Act was passed in the United Kingdom in 1802, followed by several subsequent acts in the 19th century. These laws set minimum age requirements for workers, regulated working hours, and established health and safety standards in factories.
2. Mines Act (1842): This law aimed to improve working conditions in mines, particularly for women and children. It prohibited the employment of women and children under a certain age in underground mines and set regulations on ventilation, safety measures, and working hours.
3. Trade Union Acts: Laws such as the Trade Union Act of 1871 in the UK recognized the right of workers to form trade unions and engage in collective bargaining. This gave workers a stronger voice in negotiating better wages and working conditions with their employers.
4. Employers' Liability Act (1880): This law established the principle of employer liability for accidents or injuries suffered by workers while on the job. It allowed workers to sue their employers for compensation if they were injured due to negligence or unsafe working conditions.
5. Workmen's Compensation Act (1897): This law provided a system of compensation for workers who suffered injuries or illnesses caused by their work. It required employers to provide financial compensation to injured workers or their dependents, regardless of who was at fault.
6. Fair Labor Standards Act (1938) in the United States: This landmark legislation set minimum wage, maximum work hours, and overtime pay requirements for workers in various industries. It also prohibited child labor and established standards for record-keeping and child labor regulations.
7. Health and Safety Legislation: Countries also implemented laws focused on improving health and safety in workplaces. These laws covered areas such as ventilation, lighting, machinery safety, and exposure to hazardous substances.
These laws played a crucial role in improving the lives and working conditions of industrial workers during the Industrial Revolution. They provided basic protections, ensured fairer treatment, and laid the foundation for further labor rights and regulations in subsequent decades.