In a recent public debate held at Fundacentro, representatives from government, labor and academia gathered to discuss the Internal Committee for the Prevention of Accidents (CIPA). The meeting focused on the democratization of CIPAs in the workplace and the need to revise their size.
The Director of Knowledge and Technology at Fundacentro, Remígio Todeschini, highlighted the discrepancies between the risk levels of the National Classification of Economic Activities (CNAE), according to NR-4, when compared to the frequency, severity and cost, according to the Accident Prevention Factor (FAP). The FAP takes into account records of occupational injuries and illnesses. Out of 260 CNAEs for CIPA sizing, 112 have a frequency, severity or cost greater than 50%. These risk levels are considered by NR-5, along with the number of employees in the company, to determine the number of CIPA members. Todeschini’s analysis suggests that many CNAEs have a risk level that does not correspond to the actual accident rate, indicating a dynamic nature of risk assessment.
In addition, the Fundacentro president emphasized the widespread influence of CIPAs in promoting worker safety and health through their presence in companies. He also highlighted the importance of CIPAs in combating harassment, which is increasingly affecting the mental health of workers.
Josivânia Souza, Secretary for Workers’ Health of the Central Workers’ Union (Central Única dos Trabalhadores – CUT), argued for the strategic occupation of spaces in trade unions, government and public policy. She pointed out that without public policies, it would be difficult to meet the health and safety needs of workers. Souza also advocated for the support and training of CIPA members and the fulfillment of their role in the fight against harassment, as required by Article 23 of MTP Regulation No. 4.219, dated December 20, 2022.
The inclusion of content on preventing and combating sexual harassment and other forms of violence in the workplace now applies to training conducted since the ordinance was issued. This is particularly important as women are often the most vulnerable to harassment in the workplace.
The discussions at Fundacentro are evidence of ongoing efforts to improve occupational health and safety standards. By revising the size of the CIPAs, there is potential to better align the commissions with the realities of workplace risks, thereby improving the protection and well-being of workers across industries.
