Understanding the Ley Silla and its Implications
The Ley Silla, already in effect, mandates new employer obligations that will be under scrutiny by the Secretaría del Trabajo y Previsión Social (STPS). The STPS has communicated these new regulations to employers and confirmed that verification of compliance will be incorporated into its Annual Inspection Program for 2026.
Industrial, Commercial, and Service Sector Obligations
Industrial, commercial, and service sectors are required to provide seated rest areas with back support for workers performing tasks while standing. These seating options can be placed at the workstation, allowing workers to alternate between standing and sitting without interrupting their tasks. If seating cannot be placed at the workstation, employers must provide backrest chairs in nearby areas and agree on the number of breaks and their duration to ensure effective rest.
Regulatory Requirements
- Identification of risks associated with standing work
- Entitlement to breaks during the workday
- Location and availability of seating or backrest chairs in the workplace
The STPS aims to ensure that workplaces provide conditions favorable to workers’ health, rest, and risk prevention through these inspections, particularly preventing musculoskeletal risks and injuries for those engaged in bipedal activities.
Inspections under Ley Silla Extend Beyond Seating
According to Axel Pérez Gama, a partner at MX Legal, the Ley Silla also addresses issues like ergonomic flooring, footwear, designated rest areas, and internal work regulation updates. These considerations, if properly implemented by employers, should ensure compliance.
STPS Inspections and Enforcement
The STPS has the authority to conduct workplace inspections (security, hygiene, or general conditions) to verify compliance. With rigorous inspections expected to begin in February 2026, employers must prepare for these evaluations.
Preparing for 2026 Labor Inspections
Labor lawyers Ricardo Aceves and Axel Pérez Gama advise employers to stay updated on all current reforms and anticipate future changes, as the economic cost of labor sanctions for noncompliance is significant. They specifically recommend evaluating the number of backrest chairs to provide, rest time for each worker, and whether workers can perform their duties while seated—all of which should be documented in an act.
Importance of Staying Current with Labor Laws
Both experts emphasize the importance of adhering to labor law requirements, as the STPS has adopted a rigorous enforcement approach. In 2025, the number of inspections has been substantial, signaling increased scrutiny in areas with notable opportunities for improvement.
Key Questions and Answers
- What is the Ley Silla? The Ley Silla mandates employers to provide seated rest areas for workers engaged in standing tasks, ensuring their health and preventing musculoskeletal risks.
- When will STPS begin inspecting for Ley Silla compliance? STPS inspections under the Ley Silla are expected to commence in February 2026.
- What else does the Ley Silla cover besides seating? The Ley Silla also addresses ergonomic flooring, footwear, designated rest areas, and internal work regulation updates.
- How can employers prepare for these inspections? Employers should stay updated on labor law reforms, evaluate the number of backrest chairs to provide, rest time for each worker, and document these decisions in acts.
- Why is it crucial to comply with labor laws? Noncompliance can result in significant economic sanctions, and adhering to labor laws contributes to a better work environment, reduced employee turnover, and increased productivity.
