Brazil: Sanctions resume for workplace psychosocial risk mismanagement

Following the expiration of a 90-day suspension ordered by the Supremo Tribunal Federal (STF), companies in Brazil can once again face fines and administrative sanctions for failing to manage psychosocial risks in the workplace.

The updated Regulatory Standard 1 (NR-1) requires employers to include psychosocial risk factors—such as excessive workload, pressure, harassment, and lack of support—within their Occupational Risk Management (GRO) programs. While the STF had temporarily halted penalties due to concerns regarding the clarity of the rules and potential punishments, the underlying obligations remain in effect.

The regulation aims to address mental health by identifying organizational factors that can lead to psychosocial disorders. The Ministry of Labor and Employment (MTE) continues to provide guidance for implementation as organizations transition from mere documentation to effective prevention and management processes.