Regulations for managing occupational risk factors - Chair Law
On July 17, 2025, the Ministry of Labor and Social Welfare (STPS) published in the Official Gazette of the Federation the Regulations for managing risk factors associated with prolonged standing work (i.e., performing tasks while standing for more than three continuous hours during the workday). This new agreement stems from the December 2024 reform to the Federal Labor Law, commonly known as the "Ley Silla" (Chair Law).
The agreement is mandatory for all workplaces that employ staff who work while standing, particularly in the following sectors:
- Services
- Commerce
- Similar workplaces
- Industrial establishments, where the nature of the position permits.
Main obligations for employers:
- Job-specific risk assessment: Each company must identify positions involving prolonged standing, evaluate the physical environment, type of task, physical load, duration, individual health, and other relevant variables. This assessment must be formally documented and recorded during inspection rounds by the Workplace Safety and Hygiene Commission.
- Risk level classification: A specific procedure is established to assign a risk score to each worker based on seven ergonomic and operational factors.
- Provision of adequate furniture: Based on the risk level, ergonomic chairs or stools with backrests must be provided, featuring adjustable characteristics and lumbar support. Where applicable, footrests and anti-fatigue surfaces must be installed.
- Implementation of active breaks: According to the risk analysis, scheduled breaks must be implemented to allow changes in posture and to prevent fatigue or musculoskeletal disorders.
- Training and information: Employers must train workers on how to use the provided seating, inform them about the risks of prolonged standing, and document this training in their personnel records.
- Monitoring and maintenance: Companies must establish a system to review the condition of the furniture, report malfunctions, and provide medical referrals in case of symptoms related to standing work.
Consequences of non-compliance
The STPS is empowered to carry out inspections and may impose administrative fines depending on the severity of the infraction. It may also order the immediate correction of deficient conditions and, in severe cases, apply additional penalties in accordance with the Federal Labor Law.
General recommendations
To comply with this new regulation, it is recommended that companies take the following actions:
- Internally map positions involving prolonged standing.
- Perform risk assessments in line with the agreement’s guidelines.
- Acquire and adapt the necessary furniture.
- Update the workplace safety and health program.
- Provide documented training to personnel.
- Design and register protocols for active breaks.
Additionally, companies are advised to maintain solid evidence of all actions taken to comply with the provisions of this new regulation, as such documentation could be essential in the event of a government inspection
We remain at your service for advice and assistance in implementing these new obligations. If you require additional information, please contact us.
Regards,
ZUBIETA & LANDA, ELIZONDO ABOGADOS
