Best Employment & Labor Lawyers in Dhaka

About Employment & Labor Law in Dhaka, Bangladesh

Employment and labor law in Dhaka, Bangladesh, is governed by a variety of statutes and regulations aimed at protecting the rights of workers and ensuring fair workplace practices. This framework is primarily encapsulated in the Bangladesh Labour Act, 2006, which outlines the rights and obligations of employers and employees alike. The law covers a range of areas including employment contracts, wages, working hours, leaves, termination, workplace safety, and dispute resolution. Understanding these rules is essential for both employers and employees to maintain a harmonious and legally compliant working relationship.

Why You May Need a Lawyer

There are several situations in employment and labor matters where legal assistance may be necessary. For employees, issues like unfair dismissal, workplace harassment, wage disputes, and unaddressed grievances might require the intervention of a legal professional. Employers may seek legal advice for drafting employment contracts, handling disciplinary actions, compliance with labor laws, or defending against legal claims from employees. Legal expertise can help navigate these complexities and provide clarity and advocacy in disputes.

Local Laws Overview

The Bangladesh Labour Act, 2006, is the cornerstone of employment and labor laws in Bangladesh, and it applies to most industries in Dhaka. Some key aspects include:

• Employment Contracts: Employers must provide written employment contracts outlining job roles, salary, working hours, and other terms.
• Wages: Minimum wage laws are established, and timely payment is mandatory.
• Working Hours: Standard working hours are limited to 8 hours per day and 48 hours per week, with provisions for overtime.
• Leave Entitlements: Employees are entitled to various types of leave, including annual leave, sick leave, and maternity leave.
• Termination: Specific procedures need to be followed for lawful termination, including notice periods and severance pay.
• Workplace Safety: Employers are required to adhere to health and safety standards to ensure a safe working environment.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the minimum wage in Dhaka?

The minimum wage varies by industry and is set by the government. It is important to refer to the latest gazette notifications for accurate figures.

How many hours are considered as overtime?

Any work done beyond 8 hours a day or 48 hours a week is considered overtime, and employees should be compensated accordingly.

What are the laws regarding maternity leave?

Female employees are entitled to 16 weeks of maternity leave, with certain conditions regarding tenure and notice requirements.

How can an employee file a grievance?

Employees can file a grievance through an internal company process or seek assistance from the Department of Labor for mediation.

Are there any protections against workplace harassment?

Yes, the law provides mechanisms to report and address workplace harassment, and employers are encouraged to establish anti-harassment policies.

What is the procedure for termination?

Termination must comply with notice period requirements, and employers are advised to document justifiable reasons to avoid disputes.

Can an employer reduce a worker's salary?

An employer cannot reduce an employee’s salary without consent unless stipulated in the employment contract or due to legal adjustments like taxes.

Who qualifies for redundancy pay?

Employers must pay redundancy compensation to employees who have been with the company for at least a year, calculated based on their tenure.

What rights do temporary workers have?

Temporary workers are entitled to fair wages and working conditions similar to permanent employees, but they might not have the full range of benefits.

Is there a probationary period for new employees?

Employers can institute a probationary period, typically ranging from three to six months, during which either party may terminate the employment with shorter notice.

Additional Resources

For further assistance, consider reaching out to the following resources:

• The Department of Labour, Government of Bangladesh
• Bangladesh Employers' Federation
• Bangladesh Trade Union Congress
• Legal Aid Organizations providing pro bono support

Next Steps

If you need legal assistance in employment and labor matters in Dhaka, start by consulting a lawyer specializing in this field. Prepare all relevant documents and evidence regarding your issue to provide a comprehensive understanding of your situation to your legal advisor. You might wish to contact local legal aid organizations if budget constraints are a concern. Taking timely and informed action can significantly enhance outcomes in employment disputes.