The Hours of Work (Coal Mines) Convention (Revised), 1935 (Convention No. 46) is an International Labour Organization (ILO) convention that aims to regulate working hours in coal mines. It is a revision of the Hours of Work (Coal Mines) Convention, 1931 (Convention No. 31).
The primary objective of the convention is to limit the daily working hours of underground workers in coal mines to seven hours and forty-five minutes. It also addresses the time spent entering and exiting the mine, ensuring that this is included within the calculation of working hours. The convention aims to protect the health and safety of mine workers, recognising the hazardous and demanding nature of their work.
The convention outlines provisions for exceptions to the standard working hours, allowing for overtime in certain circumstances such as accidents, urgent repairs, or unforeseen events. However, it emphasizes that such overtime should be subject to strict limitations and regulations.
Countries ratifying the convention are obligated to implement its provisions through legislation and regulations. They are also required to ensure effective enforcement and monitoring of working hours in coal mines.
The convention reflects a global effort to improve working conditions and protect the well-being of coal miners. While the coal mining industry has evolved significantly since 1935, the convention remains a relevant historical document highlighting international concerns for workers' rights and safety in hazardous occupations. The degree to which it is currently in force varies considerably depending on the ratifying state.