Mexico: New obligations to protect workers who work standing

These new provisions, aimed at guaranteeing the right to rest during the workday, address workplace risk factors and are now in force. The Department of Labor and Social Welfare (STPS) issued guidelines to ensure the right to rest for employees who perform their duties while standing (bipedestation). These measures seek to prevent health risks, particularly those arising from prolonged standing.

These provisions are mandatory for all workplaces in Mexico across the industries of rendering of services, commerce, and similar sectors, as well as industrial establishments, provided the nature of the work permits it. The primary objective is for employers to provide a sufficient number of seats or chairs with adequate backrests for workers who remain standing during their workday.

The decree mandates that employers identify risk factors by individually evaluating the working conditions of each employee to implement preventive measures. This is due to demonstrated negative health consequences of prolonged bipedestation—defined as standing for more than three continuous hours—which can include lower back pain, muscle fatigue, cardiovascular problems, and complications during pregnancy.

For these evaluations, a technical analysis is required to identify the conditions under which standing work is performed. This analysis must be recorded in the minutes of the health and safety joint committee, and the risk level for each individual must be determined. Based on this assessment, the most appropriate type of seating, such as high stools, chairs with medium backrests, or adjustable ergonomic chairs, including complementary elements like footrests, must be provided.

In addition to furniture, the provisions demand additional measures to mitigate risks. These include alternating postures, designing ergonomic workstations, providing appropriate footwear, using cushioned flooring, and incorporating active breaks within the workday. Furthermore, personnel must be informed about the risks associated with their positions and referred for medical evaluation if they experience discomfort related to standing.