Brazil firms urged to map psychosocial risks for leaders under NR‑1 overhaul

Brazil’s updated NR‑1 occupational health regulation obliges companies to address psychosocial risks as a core element of workplace safety. The rule calls for systematic mapping of these risks not only among employees but also for managers, emphasizing that leaders’ mental health directly influences team wellbeing.

Companies already ahead of the mandate treat mental‑health initiatives as strategic priorities, placing them on board agendas and assigning dedicated governance. CEOs act as ambassadors, allocating budgets and modelling open discussion of stress and emotional strain. Best‑practice examples include senior health leaders attending international programmes such as the Dutch “Designing a Better Work” course and bringing back advanced benchmarks for reducing organizational stress.

The guidance stresses that without leader‑focused support, measures like questionnaires or wellness apps remain superficial. Effective implementation requires safe channels for managers to express vulnerabilities, professional assistance, and training that develops emotional competencies across all managerial levels.