In August 2024, the Brazilian Ministry of Labor and Employment (MTE) introduced changes to three NRs that shape workplace safety. These updates, outlined in MTE Ordinance No. 1418, 1419, and 1420, focus on enhancing occupational risk management, particularly in high-risk activities and the construction industry. The revisions aim to address modern workplace challenges, improving safety regulations to better protect workers.
Enhanced Risk Management in NR-1
The most significant changes come with NR-1, which covers General Provisions and Occupational Risk Management. Through MTE Ordinance No. 1419, the Ministry updated chapter 1.5, focusing on proactive and systematic risk management practices. This revision clarifies the terminology.
The Occupational Risk Management (GRO) process was also strengthened, with a clearer structure for identifying and controlling hazards. This update includes several new terms and definitions to aid professionals in managing risks more effectively. These include “large-scale emergency,” “preliminary hazard and risk analysis,” and “evident occupational risk,” among others. This amendment will come into effect as of May 26, 2025, allowing organizations time to adapt.
NR-16: Hazardous Activities and Operations
Another critical change was made to NR-16, which governs hazardous activities. MTE Ordinance No. 1418 updates item 16.6, clarifying its application regarding inflammable substances. Specifically, it excludes the fuel quantities contained in factory-original and supplemental fuel tanks used for cargo vehicles, public transport, and certified refrigeration equipment from being classified as hazardous.
This revision also revokes previous provisions under SEPRT Ordinance No. 1357 of 2019, streamlining compliance requirements for businesses involved in such operations. This change took immediate effect on August 28, 2024.
NR-18: Safety in Construction
The final set of updates relates to NR-18, which outlines the safety and environmental conditions in the construction industry. Through MTE Ordinance No. 1420, the Ministry revoked item 18.17.2, which had previously governed the use of shipping containers as living spaces for workers.
Under the new regulations, these containers can now only be used if accompanied by technical and environmental reports certifying the absence of chemical, biological, and physical risks, particularly radiation. Additionally, the containers must meet the living area standards outlined in chapter 18.5 of NR 18. This revision also removes the height requirement stipulated in NR-24, except when the container is used as a dormitory with bunk beds. These updates came into force on August 28, 2024.
Conclusion
The recent changes to NR-1, NR-16, and NR-18 mark a significant step forward in modernizing Brazil’s workplace safety regulations. By refining risk management processes and adapting to contemporary challenges such as ergonomic and psychosocial risks, these updates aim to create safer, healthier work environments. Companies now have a clear framework to follow, empowering both management and workers to take a proactive role in preventing accidents and occupational illnesses.
These updates will come into full effect within the next year, and businesses must stay informed to ensure compliance and promote safer working conditions.