Background on the Silla Law and Its Relevance
The Silla Law, a reform to Mexico’s Federal Labor Law, was enacted on June 17th, recognizing workers’ rights to rest on a seat during their workday. This law aims to address the growing issue of musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs) in the workplace, which have seen a staggering 3,590% increase over the past decade according to data from Mexico’s Social Security Institute (IMSS).
Who is Affected?
Approximately 60% to 70% of the workforce in certain sectors, such as retail, security, distribution, gas stations, and manufacturing, lack the necessary infrastructure to comply with the Silla Law’s requirements. These sectors are primarily operative and face challenges in understanding the law’s scope.
Challenges in Implementation
Key obstacles to the Silla Law’s implementation include:
- Lack of ergonomic analysis: Companies are struggling to understand how to properly assess and address workplace ergonomics.
- Limited budgets: Financial constraints hinder the acquisition of appropriate seating and workplace adjustments.
- Insufficient knowledge of the regulation: Many organizations are unaware of the Silla Law’s specifics, leading to improvised and ineffective solutions.
Annel Lozano, Subdirector of Strategy at Lockton México’s Salud Be Well, states: “This has resulted in some companies acting without proper guidance, implementing hasty solutions that don’t always improve worker well-being.”
Concerns Raised by Concanaco Servytur
Concanaco Servytur, a Mexican business organization, has expressed concerns regarding the STPS guidelines for the Silla Law implementation. They argue that these guidelines lack essential technical aspects regarding active breaks, causing ambiguity and potential arbitrary interpretations.
Moreover, Concanaco Servytur has criticized the extended but paid non-productive hours resulting from the Silla Law’s pauses. They estimate that, in certain activities offering more frequent or extensive rest periods, the effective workday could be reduced by almost 19% in a single day.
Risks of Inadequate Implementation
Lockton warns that without clear guidelines and proper infrastructure, the Silla Law may be implemented merely as a compliance measure to avoid penalties rather than focusing on risk prevention.
“It’s not just about placing a chair; it’s about designing appropriate usage protocols and spaces that promote rest without compromising operations. Poorly chosen seating, non-ergonomic furniture, or inadequate locations could exacerbate the very risks the law aims to prevent,” emphasizes Lockton.
Importance of Ergonomic Consultation
Annel Lozano stresses the importance of technical ergonomic consultation supported by a multidisciplinary team, including specialists in medicine, nutrition, psychology, and ergonomics.
Key Questions and Answers
- What is the Silla Law? The Silla Law is a reform to Mexico’s Federal Labor Law recognizing workers’ rights to rest on a seat during their workday.
- Which sectors are affected? Primarily operative sectors, such as retail, security, distribution, gas stations, and manufacturing, face challenges in complying with the Silla Law.
- What are the main implementation challenges? Key obstacles include lack of ergonomic analysis, limited budgets, and insufficient knowledge of the regulation.
- Why is proper implementation crucial? Proper implementation ensures risk prevention and worker well-being, rather than mere compliance.
