Brazil to enforce mental health workplace regulations in September

Brazilian companies face upcoming enforcement of updated NR-1 regulations regarding psychosocial risks in the workplace. While the requirement to include mental health risks in occupational risk management has been in effect since May, a 90-day suspension on fines and sanctions is set to expire on September 26.

The suspension follows a challenge by the Confederação Nacional dos Estabelecimentos de Ensino (Confenen) at the Supremo Tribunal Federal (STF), citing a lack of clarity regarding assessment criteria.

Once the suspension ends, inspectors will look for documented evidence that companies have identified risks, implemented preventive measures, and monitored results. Experts advise that businesses should not only assess risks but also actively execute action plans, including training, whistleblowing channels, and ergonomic evaluations, to avoid potential fines and labor lawsuits.