The renowned Chair Law is now a reality in Mexico. With the entry into force of the reform to the Federal Labor Law (LFT), companies have the obligation of offering seats with backrests to their employees that perform prolonged duties while standing. This measure seeks to prevent health problems resulting from strained postures, and brings the country up to date on labor rights, after more than one century of lagging behind similar economies.
Even though the provision is already in force, the regulation establishes a transition period of 180 calendar days for employers to make the necessary adjustments. That is, it will be fully mandatory for all work centers to have ergonomic furniture and adapted internal regulations by December 14, 2025.
Labor specialist Estefanía Rueda, partner at the Littler Firm, explained that the obligation focuses on providing chairs with backrests that are accessible at the workplace or preparing designated rest areas, particularly for those who remain standing for several hours a day. “The important thing is that workers have the real opportunity of sitting down to rest during their workday”, she stated.
For its part, the D&M Abogados Firm emphasized that, except in the case of justified exceptions, there should no longer be employees that spend their entire workday without sitting down. To this end, they recommend that companies conduct a workplace position assessment, acquire suitable furniture, and provide training to personnel on these new rights.
The reform includes two key obligations: guaranteeing that there are enough chairs available to allow rest breaks, and prohibiting that workers remain standing during their entire workday. These measures should also be reflected in each company’s internal labor regulations.
Mayeli Cabral, partner in the Labor area at Chevez Ruiz Zamarripa, explained that during the next few months companies must adapt their internal regulations, register the changes with the Federal Center for Labor Conciliation and Registration (CFCRL) and prepare their physical facilities to comply with the new provision. “The obligation is in place, but penalties can be applied only after the period granted for adjustment”, she explained.
Both experts agree that, even though penalties cannot be applied yet, it is advisable for companies to start implementation as soon as possible. Not only to avoid future fines, but because the basis for this reform is to protect the health of workers.
Another key point is that the new rules on the use of chairs and breaks must be defined by mutual agreement between employers and employees. According to law, any amendment to the internal regulations must be approved by the Joint Regulations Committee, comprised by representatives from both parties.
Lastly, the Department of Labor and Social Welfare has 30 days from the entry into force of the law to issue the official guidelines that will specify how this measure is to be applied in work centers. Until then, companies that wish to move forward early must be cautious in order to avoid incurring in operational or legal mistakes.
