(MTE Ordinance No. 342, of March 21, 2024)
SUMMARY
31.1 Objective
31.2 Scope of Application – Obligations and Competences – Responsibilities
31.3 Rural Risk Management Program (PGRTR)
31.4 Specialized Service in Rural Health and Safety (SESTR)
31.5 Internal Committee for the Prevention of Accidents and Harassment in Rural Work (CIPATR)
31.6 Personal Protection Measures
31.7 Pesticides, Additives, Adjuvants, and Related Products
31.8 Ergonomics
31.9 Transportation of Workers
31.10 Electrical Installations
31.11 Hand Tools
31.12 Safety in the Work of Machines, Equipment, and Implements
31.13 Dryers, Silos, and Confined Spaces
31.14 Material Handling and Storage
31.15 Work at Heights
31.16 Rural Buildings
31.17 Sanitary and Comfort Conditions in Rural Work
Annex I – Access to machinery, equipment, and implements
Annex II – Auxiliary Charts and Figures
Glossary
31.1 Objective
31.1.1 This Regulatory Standard (NR) aims to establish the principles to be observed in the organization and environment of rural work to make the planning and development of sector activities compatible with the prevention of occupational accidents and illnesses in rural areas.
31.2 Scope – Obligations and Competences – Responsibilities
31.2.1 This Standard applies to any activities in agriculture, livestock, silviculture, forest exploitation, and aquaculture, considering the forms of labor and employment relations and the location of activities.
31.2.1.1 In the activities provided for in item 31.2.1, only the provisions of this NR apply, except:
a) when there is an express reference to the application of other NRs in this Standard;
b) in case of embargo and interdiction (NR-3);
c) in the case of boilers, pressure vessels, pipelines, and metal storage tanks (NR-13), when applicable;
d) regarding insalubrity aspects (NR-15);
e) regarding hazardousness aspects (NR-16);
f) in the case of flammables and combustibles (NR-20), when applicable; and
g) regarding inspection and penalties aspects (NR-28).
31.2.2 This Standard also applies to industrial exploitation activities carried out in rural establishments.
31.2.2.1 Industrial exploitation activities carried out in rural establishments are those established in Art. 2, §§ 3, 4, and 5 of the Regulation of Individual and Collective Rural Labor Relations, approved by Decree No. 73,626, of February 12, 1974.
31.2.3 It is the responsibility of the rural employer or equivalent to:
a) comply with and enforce legal and regulatory provisions on rural health and safety to ensure adequate working, hygiene, and comfort conditions, and adopt preventive and protective measures to ensure that all activities, workplaces, machines, equipment, and tools are safe;
b) adopt the necessary procedures in case of accidents and occupational illnesses, including the analysis of their causes;
c) ensure that understandable instructions on health and safety, their rights, duties, and obligations, as well as the necessary guidance and supervision for safe work, are provided to workers;
d) inform workers:
I. of the risks arising from the work and the preventive measures implemented, including new technologies adopted by the employer;
II. of the results of medical and supplementary examinations to which they were subjected when performed by a medical service contracted by the employer;
III. of the results of environmental assessments carried out at the workplaces;
e) allow a legally constituted workers’ representative to accompany the inspection of legal and regulatory provisions on occupational health and safety; and
f) provide the Labor Inspection with all information related to occupational health and safety.
31.2.4 It is the worker’s responsibility to:
a) comply with the determinations on the safe ways to carry out their activities, especially regarding service orders issued for this purpose;
b) adopt the preventive measures determined by the employer in accordance with this Regulatory Standard, under penalty of constituting a wrongful act in the case of unjustified refusal;
c) undergo the medical examinations provided for in this Regulatory Standard;
d) cooperate with the company in the application of this Regulatory Standard;
e) not damage living areas to preserve the offered conditions;
f) comply with all guidelines related to the safe procedures of operation, feeding, supply, cleaning, maintenance, inspection, transportation, deactivation, disassembly, and disposal of tools, machines, and equipment;
g) not make any changes to tools and mechanical protections or safety devices of machines and equipment in a way that could endanger their health and physical integrity or that of others;
h) notify their immediate supervisor if any tool, machine, or equipment is damaged or loses its function.
31.2.4.1 The obligations provided in item 31.2.4 do not exempt the employer from complying with the requirements of this Standard.
31.2.5 Workers have the right to:
a) safe and healthy working environments, in accordance with the provisions of this Regulatory Standard;
b) be consulted, through their representatives in the Internal Committee for the Prevention of Accidents and Harassment in Rural Work (CIPATR), on the preventive measures to be adopted by the employer;
c) choose their representation in matters of occupational health and safety;
d) receive instructions on health and safety, as well as guidance to act in the process of implementing the preventive measures to be adopted by the employer.
31.2.5.1 The worker may interrupt their activities when they detect a work situation that, in their view, for reasonable reasons, involves a serious and imminent risk to their life or health, immediately informing their hierarchical superior.
31.2.5.2 The employer cannot require the workers to return to activity until corrective measures are taken to address the serious and imminent risk situation to their life or health.
31.2.5.3 The worker must be protected from unjustified consequences due to the interruption provided in item 31.2.5.1 of this NR.
31.2.5.4 The worker must immediately notify their hierarchical superior of work situations involving a serious and imminent risk to their life or health, as well as that of others.
31.2.6 Organizations required to establish CIPA under NR-5 must adopt the following measures, among others they deem necessary, to prevent and combat sexual harassment and other forms of violence in the workplace:
a) inclusion of conduct rules regarding sexual harassment and other forms of violence in the company’s internal regulations, with wide dissemination of its content to employees;
b) establishment of procedures for receiving and monitoring complaints, investigating the facts, and, when applicable, applying administrative sanctions to those directly and indirectly responsible for acts of sexual harassment and violence, guaranteeing the anonymity of the complainant, without prejudice to the applicable legal procedures; and
c) conducting, at least every 12 (twelve) months, training, orientation, and awareness actions for employees at all hierarchical levels of the company on topics related to violence, harassment, equality, and diversity in the workplace, in accessible, appropriate formats that maximize the effectiveness of such actions.
31.2.6.1 The rural employer or equivalent must promote training and capacity building for workers in accordance with the provisions of this NR.
31.2.6.1.1 At the end of training or capacity building, a certificate must be issued containing the worker’s name, program content, workload, date, location of the training, the name and qualification of the instructors, and the signature of the technical responsible person, with the worker’s signature on the attendance list or certificate.
31.2.6.2 Initial training must occur before the worker starts their duties.
31.2.6.2.1 Periodic or refresher training must occur according to the frequency established in specific items of this NR or, when not established, within the period determined by the Rural Risk Management Program (PGRTR).
31.2.6.3 The training may include:
a) practical internship, supervised professional practice, or on-the-job orientation;
b) simulated exercises; or
c) qualification for operating vehicles, boats, machines, or equipment.
31.2.6.4 The time spent on training and capacity building provided for in this NR is considered effective work time.
31.2.6.5 The certificate must be made available to the worker, and a copy must be filed by the employer or equivalent in physical or electronic form.
31.2.6.6 The content of training provided by the same employer may be credited, provided that:
a) the required content and workload in the new training are included in the previous training;
b) the content of the previous training was provided within the period established in this NR, or less than 2 (two) years ago when this period is not established; and
c) validated by the training’s technical responsible person.
31.2.6.6.1 The crediting of the content must be recorded on the certificate, mentioning the content and the date of the credited training.
31.2.6.6.1.1 The validity of the new training must consider the date of the oldest credited training.
31.2.6.7 The training carried out by the worker may be evaluated by the employer and validated or supplemented.
31.2.6.7.1 Validation or supplementation must consider:
a) the activities carried out by the worker at the previous employer, if applicable;
b) the activities they will perform;
c) the content and workload completed;
d) the required content and workload; and
e) that the last training was carried out within the period established in this NR, or less than 2 (two) years ago, when this period is not established.
31.2.6.8 The total or partial crediting of previous training does not exempt the rural employer or equivalent from issuing the worker’s training certificate, mentioning the date of the validated or supplemented training.
31.2.6.8.1 For the purpose of periodicity of new training, the date of the oldest validated or supplemented training must be considered.
31.2.6.9 The training or capacity building may be provided in person, semi-in-person, or distance learning modalities, provided that the operational, administrative, technological, and pedagogical structuring requirements set forth in Annex II of NR-1 (General Provisions and Occupational Risk Management) are met.
31.2.6.9.1 The practical content of the training or capacity building must be provided in person.
31.3 Rural Risk Management Program (PGRTR)
31.3.1 The rural employer or equivalent must develop, implement, and fund the PGRTR for each rural establishment through health and safety actions aimed at preventing occupational accidents and illnesses in rural activities.
31.3.1.1 The rural employer or equivalent with up to 50 (fifty) employees per rural establishment, whether permanent or temporary, may choose to use risk assessment tool(s) provided by the Special Secretariat for Social Security and Labor (SEPRT), to structure the PGRTR and develop an action plan, based on the report produced by these tool(s).
31.3.1.2 Compliance with item 31.3.1.1 does not exempt the rural employer or equivalent from complying with the other provisions of this NR.
31.3.1.3 The employer must inform workers about the risks identified in the risk inventory and the preventive measures in the PGRTR action plan.
31.3.2 The PGRTR must address chemical, physical, biological, accident risks, and ergonomic aspects, with its scope and complexity depending on the characteristics of the risks and control needs.
31.3.3 The PGRTR must include, at a minimum, the following steps:
a) Preliminary identification of hazards and their elimination when possible;
b) Assessment of occupational risks that cannot be completely eliminated;
c) Establishment of preventive measures with priorities and a schedule;
d) Implementation of preventive measures, in the following order of priority:
I. Elimination of risk factors;
II. Minimization and control of risk factors through collective protection measures;
III. Minimization and control of risk factors through administrative or work organization measures; and
IV. Adoption of personal protective measures;
e) Monitoring the control of occupational risks; and
f) Investigation and analysis of accidents and occupational illnesses.
31.3.3.1 Parameters for assessing risks and workers’ exposure to physical, chemical, and biological agents and criteria for health risk prevention due to occupational exposures must be carried out according to the Annexes of NR-9 (Assessment and Control of Occupational Exposures to Physical, Chemical, and Biological Agents).
31.3.3.2 The PGRTR must include, at a minimum, the following documents:
a) Occupational risk inventory; and
b) Action plan.
31.3.3.2.1 The Occupational Risk Inventory must include, at a minimum, the following information:
a) Characterization of work processes and environments;
b) Characterization of activities;
c) Description of hazards and possible injuries or health problems for workers, with identification of sources or circumstances, description of risks generated by hazards, with identification of groups of workers subject to these risks, and description of preventive measures implemented;
d) Data from preliminary analysis or monitoring of exposures to physical, chemical, and biological agents, and the results of the ergonomic evaluation, as per item 31.8 of this Standard;
e) Risk assessment, including classification for the purpose of developing the action plan; and
f) Criteria adopted for risk assessment and decision-making.
31.3.4 The PGRTR must be reviewed every 3 (three) years, or when innovations and changes occur in technologies, environments, processes, conditions, procedures, and work organization, or when inadequacies or insufficiencies in hazard assessment and the adoption of preventive measures are identified.
31.3.5 The PGRTR must also establish measures for:
a) Work with animals, including immunization of workers, handling and disposal of animal secretions, excretions, and remains, and appropriate methods and locations for approaching, contacting, and immobilizing, and recognition and precautions regarding communicable diseases;
b) Guidance to workers on procedures to be adopted in extreme weather conditions and activity interruption in such situations, when they compromise worker safety;
c) Work organization so that activities requiring greater physical effort, when possible, are carried out in the morning or late afternoon, and to minimize impacts on health and safety in activities on rough terrain;
d) Definition of safe conditions for the transit of workers and vehicles on internal circulation roads of the rural establishment, with visible signs and physical protections where there is a risk of vehicle falls;
e) Elimination of residues from productive processes that may generate risks to safety and health of workers; and
f) Performing work within the safety zone of power distribution lines, considering possible accident risks.
31.3.6 Actions to preserve occupational health and prevent and control work-related health problems must be planned and executed based on hazard identification and the needs and peculiarities of rural activities.
31.3.7 The rural employer or equivalent must ensure the performance of medical examinations, complying with the following requirements:
a) Pre-employment examination, to be performed before the worker starts their activities;
b) Periodic examination, to be performed annually or at shorter intervals when provided by agreement or collective labor agreement or at medical discretion;
c) Return-to-work examination, to be performed on the first day of returning to work after an absence of 30 (thirty) days or more due to any illness or accident;
d) Occupational risk change examination, which must be performed before the date of the change, adapting medical control to the new risks;
e) In the termination examination, the clinical examination must be performed within 10 (ten) days from the end of the contract, and may be waived if the most recent clinical examination was conducted less than 90 days ago, unless otherwise provided by agreement or collective labor agreement.
31.3.7.1 The examinations mentioned in item 31.3.7 include clinical examination and complementary examinations, depending on the risks to which the worker is exposed and according to the parameters defined in the Annexes of NR-7 (Occupational Health Medical Control Program – PCMSO).
31.3.7.1.1 Complementary examinations must be performed by a legally authorized laboratory and interpreted based on the criteria in the Annexes of NR-07, being mandatory when occupational exposures exceed the action levels determined in the Annexes of NR-09 or if the risk classification in the PGRTR so indicates.
31.3.7.1.2 The examinations listed in Tables 1 and 2 of Annex I of NR-07 must be performed every six months, and may be anticipated or postponed by up to 45 (forty-five) days, at the discretion of the responsible physician, with technical justification, to perform the examinations in more representative situations of the employee’s exposure to the agent.
31.3.7.1.3 Other complementary examinations may be performed at the discretion of the responsible physician, provided they are related to the occupational risks identified and classified in the PGRTR.
31.3.8 For each occupational clinical examination, an Occupational Health Certificate – ASO must be issued in two copies, containing at least:
a) Full name of the worker, their CPF number, and their job function;
b) Description of hazards or risk factors identified and classified in the PGRTR that require medical control, or indication of their absence;
c) Indication and date of clinical and complementary occupational examinations performed on the worker;
d) Definition of fit or unfit for the job function the worker will perform, performs, or performed;
e) Date and signature of the physician responsible for the examination, including their registration number with the Regional Medical Council.
31.3.8.1 When complementary examinations are performed without a clinical examination, a receipt of delivery of the examination result must be issued, provided to the worker in physical form, with a receipt, without the need for ASO issuance.
31.3.8.2 The first copy of the ASO must be available for labor inspection, in physical or electronic form, and the second copy must be provided to the worker in physical form, with a receipt.
31.3.9 Every rural establishment must be equipped with necessary first aid materials, considering the characteristics of the activity carried out, under the care of a person trained for this purpose.
31.3.9.1 In work fronts with 10 (ten) or more workers, the material mentioned in the previous item must be under the care of a person trained for this purpose.
31.3.10 The employer must ensure the removal of the injured worker in case of emergency, at no cost to the worker.
31.3.10.1 In cases of accidents with venomous animals, after first aid procedures, the injured worker must be immediately referred to the nearest health unit or a location indicated in the PGRTR.
31.3.11 When the occurrence or worsening of occupational diseases is detected through complementary examinations, or alterations in biological indicators with clinical significance are found, even without symptoms, it is the responsibility of the rural employer or equivalent, with formal guidance, through a report or certificate from the physician responsible for the examinations:
a) Issue a Occupational Accident Communication (CAT);
b) Remove the worker from exposure to risk, or from work; and
c) Refer the worker to Social Security for the establishment of a causal link, disability assessment, and determination of the social security conduct regarding work.
31.3.12 Workers must have access to health agencies for:
a) Prevention and prophylaxis of endemic diseases; and
b) Administration of tetanus and other vaccines.
31.4 Specialized Service in Rural Health and Safety (SESTR)
31.4.1 SESTR, composed of specialized professionals, is a service aimed at developing technical actions integrated with health and safety management practices to make the work environment compatible with the promotion of health and safety and the preservation of the physical integrity of the rural worker.
Competences
31.4.2 SESTR is responsible for:
a) Developing a work plan and monitoring health and safety goals, indicators, and results at work;
b) Being technically responsible for guiding employers and workers regarding compliance with this NR;
c) Promoting orientation, information, and awareness activities for workers to prevent occupational accidents and illnesses;
d) Establishing preventive measures for occupational health and safety in the PGRTR;
e) Maintaining constant interaction with CIPATR, when available;
f) Proposing immediate interruption of activities and the adoption of corrective and/or control measures when working conditions or situations associated with serious and imminent risks to workers’ safety or health are detected; and
g) Conducting investigations and analyses of occupational accidents and illnesses to define causal factors and preventive measures to be adopted.
31.4.3 The rural employer or equivalent must provide the means and resources necessary to achieve SESTR’s objectives and assignments.
Modalities
31.4.4 SESTR can be established in the following modalities:
a) Individual: for establishments classified in Table 1 of this NR; or
b) Collective: in situations specified in item 31.4.5 of this NR.
31.4.5 Rural employers or equivalents required to establish individual SESTR may opt for collective SESTR when one of the following situations applies:
a) Multiple rural employers or equivalents located in the same establishment;
b) Rural employers or equivalents whose establishments are up to 200 km (124 miles) apart by access routes, counted from the headquarters of each rural property;
c) Multiple establishments under the control of the same economic group that are up to 200 km (124 miles) apart by access routes, counted from the headquarters of each rural property; or
d) Consortium of employers and production cooperatives.
Sizing
31.4.6 It is mandatory to establish SESTR, with professionals registered directly by the rural employer or through a specialized service in health and safety, for establishments with 51 (fifty-one) or more permanent employees, in accordance with the sizing provided in Table 1 of this NR.
31.4.6.1 Whenever the rural employer or equivalent hires temporary workers and/or a contracted company, and the total number of employees reaches the minimum required in this Regulatory Standard for establishing SESTR, the service must be established during the contract period.
31.4.6.2 In sizing SESTR, the following should not be considered:
a) Workers from contracted companies covered by individual SESTR or Specialized Service in Occupational Health and Safety (SESMT), provided in NR-4; and
b) Occasional, autonomous, or workers governed by specific legislation.
31.4.6.3 In case of an increase in SESTR sizing due to the hiring of temporary workers, the individual or collective SESTR, composed of professionals registered by the employer or equivalent, can be supplemented by hiring a specialized health and safety service to meet Table 1 of this NR.
31.4.7 The collective SESTR can be extended to rural employers whose establishments do not fall under Table 1 of this NR, and sizing must consider the total number of assisted workers.
31.4.8 The sizing and establishment of individual SESTR must be done per rural establishment, considering the number of workers, in accordance with Table 1 of this NR.
31.4.9 The sizing of collective SESTR must be based on the total number of workers from all assisted establishments, in accordance with Table 1 of this NR.
31.4.10 Establishments with 11 (eleven) to 50 (fifty) employees are exempt from establishing SESTR, provided the rural employer or representative is trained in occupational accident and illness prevention necessary to meet the objectives of this Regulatory Standard.
31.4.10.1 Non-compliance with item 31.4.10 obliges the employer to establish an individual SESTR, composed of at least one safety technician, with working hours compatible with the need for developing and implementing safety, health, and environmental management actions for rural work, or a collective SESTR, as per item 31.4.9 of this NR.
31.4.10.2 If opting for the training provided in item 31.4.10, the workload and program content must comply with items 31.5.24 and 31.5.25 of this NR.
31.4.11 Companies required to establish SESTR and SESMT, provided in NR-04, may establish only one of these services, considering the total number of employees in both activities.
Composition, Competence, and Operation
31.4.12 SESTR must be composed of an occupational physician, safety engineer, safety technician, occupational nurse, and occupational nursing assistant/technician, following the sizing in Table 1 of this NR.
31.4.12.1 The inclusion of other specialized professionals should be established according to SESTR and PGRTR recommendations.
31.4.13 SESTR professionals must have professional training and registration in accordance with professional regulation and normative instruments issued by the respective Professional Council, when available.
31.4.14 SESTR must be coordinated by one of the service’s professionals.
31.4.15 The safety technician must dedicate at least 20 (twenty) hours when employed part-time or 36 (thirty-six) hours when employed full-time per week to SESTR activities, in accordance with Table 1 of this NR, respecting current relevant legislation during the establishment’s working hours.
31.4.16 The occupational nursing assistant/technician must dedicate 36 (thirty-six) hours per week to SESTR activities, in accordance with Table 1 of this NR, respecting current relevant legislation during the establishment’s working hours.
31.4.17 The safety engineer, occupational physician, and occupational nurse must dedicate at least 15 (fifteen) hours (part-time) or 30 (thirty) hours (full-time) per week to SESTR activities, in accordance with Table 1 of this NR, respecting current relevant legislation during the establishment’s working hours.
31.4.17.1 For professionals referred to in item 31.4.17, to fulfill SESTR activities full-time, the rural employer or equivalent may hire more than one professional, provided each dedicates at least half of the weekly working hours.
31.4.18 SESTR professionals are prohibited from performing other activities during their working hours in this service.
Registration
31.4.19 Individual and collective SESTR must be registered as established by the Labor Secretariat (STRAB) of the Ministry of Economy.
31.4.20 The rural employer or equivalent with individual or collective SESTR composed of professionals directly registered as employees must inform and keep updated the following data:
a) CPF of SESTR professionals;
b) Qualification and registration number of professionals;
c) Number of workers in the establishment;
d) Specification of work shifts in the establishment; and
e) Working hours of SESTR professionals.
31.4.20.1 For collective SESTR, the service’s registration must include information on the assisted establishments.
31.4.21 When hiring a specialized company to meet SESTR, the rural employer or equivalent must inform the contracted company’s CNPJ.
31.4.21.1 In the situation provided in item 31.4.21, the contracted specialized health and safety service must inform and keep updated the data in item 31.4.20 of this NR for each establishment where it provides services.
Service Provision by Specialized Company
31.4.22 The rural employer or equivalent may hire a specialized health and safety service to fully meet SESTR, in any of its modalities.
31.4.22.1 SESTR sizing attended by a specialized health and safety service must comply with Table 1 of this NR for each establishment.
31.4.23 The specialized company must engage in providing health and safety services as provided in the corporate bylaws.
31.4.24 The specialized company must register each SESTR under its responsibility, informing and keeping updated the data in item 31.4.20 of this NR and the method of controlling the fulfillment of professionals’ working hours at the contracting establishment.
31.4.25 Documents related to specialized service provision must be archived by the specialized company for 5 (five) years.
31.4.26 The specialized health and safety service company must fulfill SESTR’s responsibilities as provided in this Regulatory Standard.
31.4.27 Hiring a specialized health and safety service does not exempt the rural employer or equivalent from their responsibility to comply with health and safety regulations.
TABLE 1
| Number of Workers | Legally Qualified Professionals | ||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Safety Engineer | Occupational Physician | Safety Technician | Occupational Nurse | Occupational Nursing Assistant or Technician | |
| 51 to 100 | – | – | 1 * | – | – |
| 101 to 150 | – | – | 1 | – | – |
| 151 to 300 | – | – | 1 | – | 1 ** |
| 301 to 500 | – | 1 *** | 2 | – | 1 **** |
| 501 to 1000 | 1 | 1 | 2 | 1 | 1 |
| 1001 to 3000 | 1 | 1 | 3 | 1 | 2 |
| Above 3000 for each group of 2000 or fraction | 1 | 1 | 3 | 1 | 2 |
* Safety technician on a part-time basis (20 hours per week)
** The employer can opt to hire an occupational nurse on a full-time basis, replacing the occupational nursing assistant or technician
*** Part-time occupational physician (15 hours per week)
**** The employer can opt to hire an occupational nurse on a part-time basis, replacing the occupational nursing assistant or technician
Notes:
1. The working hours for the occupational nursing assistant or technician will always be on a full-time basis;
2. The absence of an asterisk corresponds to working hours of 30 (thirty) hours for higher-level professionals, and 36 (thirty-six) hours for mid-level professionals.
31.5 Internal Committee for the Prevention of Accidents and Harassment in Rural Work (CIPATR)
31.5.1 The objective of CIPATR is to promote health and prevent occupational accidents and illnesses, thereby continuously aligning work with the preservation of the worker’s life.
Constitution and Organization
31.5.2 The rural employer or equivalent who maintains 20 (twenty) or more permanent employees is required to establish and maintain a functioning CIPATR for each establishment.
31.5.3 CIPATR must be composed of representatives appointed by the employer and representatives elected by the employees, in a proportional manner, according to the minimum ratio established in Table 2 of this Standard.
TABLE 2
| Number of Workers | ||||||
| Number of Members | 20 to 35 | 36 to 70 | 71 to 100 | 101 to 500 | 501 to 1000 | Above 1000 |
| Worker Representatives | 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 6 |
| Employer Representatives | 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 6 |
31.5.4 Employee representatives in CIPATR will be elected by secret ballot.
31.5.5 The candidates who are voted on but not elected must be listed in the election record in descending order of votes, allowing them to take office as CIPATR members in case of vacancies.
31.5.6 The term of the elected CIPATR members is 2 (two) years, with one re-election allowed.
31.5.7 The CIPATR coordinator must be chosen from among its members by the employer’s representation in the first year of the term and by the workers’ representation in the second year of the term.
31.5.8 Once CIPATR is organized, the election and inauguration minutes and the meeting calendar must be kept at the establishment for labor inspection.
31.5.9 CIPATR cannot have its number of representatives reduced or be deactivated by the employer before the end of the term of its members, even if the number of employees is reduced, except in the case of establishment closure.
Duties
31.5.10 CIPATR is responsible for:
a) Monitoring the risk assessment process and the adoption of control measures developed by the rural employer or equivalent and/or SESTR, when available;
b) Periodically inspecting the work environments and conditions to identify situations that may pose risks to workers’ safety and health;
c) Developing a work plan that enables preventive action in occupational health and safety;
d) Assisting in the development and implementation of the PGRTR;
e) Participating in the analysis of the causes of occupational accidents and illnesses and proposing measures to solve the identified problems;
f) Annually promoting, in conjunction with SESTR, where available, the Internal Week for the Prevention of Rural Occupational Accidents (SIPATR), on days and shifts defined according to the schedule;
g) Proposing to the employer the realization of courses and training that it deems necessary for workers, aiming to improve occupational health and safety conditions;
h) Developing a biannual meeting calendar;
i) Including topics related to the prevention and combating of sexual harassment and other forms of workplace violence in its activities and practices.
31.5.11 The rural employer or equivalent must:
a) Provide CIPATR members with sufficient time and necessary means to perform their duties;
b) Allow worker collaboration in managing CIPATR;
c) Provide CIPATR with the necessary information to perform its duties when requested;
d) Convene CIPATR’s regular and extraordinary meetings; and
e) Analyze recommendations and determine the adoption of necessary measures, keeping CIPATR informed.
31.5.12 Workers must report risk situations to CIPATR and SESTR, when available, and present suggestions for improving working conditions.
31.5.13 The CIPATR coordinator’s duties include:
a) Coordinating and supervising CIPATR activities, ensuring that proposed objectives are achieved;
b) Disseminating CIPATR decisions to all establishment workers; and
c) Forwarding CIPATR decisions to the rural employer or equivalent and SESTR, when available.
Election Process
31.5.14 The rural employer or equivalent is responsible for calling elections to choose worker representatives in CIPATR, at least 60 (sixty) days before the end of the current term.
31.5.14.1 The start of the electoral process must be communicated to the professional category union by sending the election call notice within 5 (five) days of its publication, which can be done electronically with delivery confirmation.
31.5.14.1.1 Registration cannot begin before notifying the professional category union.
31.5.14.2 The CIPATR coordinator must establish an electoral commission from among its members, responsible for organizing and overseeing the electoral process.
31.5.14.3 In establishments without CIPATR, the rural employer or equivalent must establish an electoral commission within 30 (thirty) days after reaching the minimum size required for its constitution.
31.5.14.3.1 The first-term election must occur within 30 days after the electoral commission’s establishment.
31.5.14.4 The electoral process must observe the following conditions:
a) Publication and dissemination of the election call notice and candidate registration deadlines in accessible and visible locations, with electronic dissemination allowed;
b) Individual registration and election, with a minimum registration period of 15 (fifteen) days;
c) Free registration for all establishment workers, regardless of sectors or work locations, with proof of registration provided, except for absences that suspend the employment contract, preventing participation in the election, training, and inauguration as a CIPATR member;
d) Job security for all registered candidates until the election;
e) Publication and dissemination of the registered workers’ list in accessible and visible locations, with electronic dissemination allowed;
f) Holding the election at least 15 (fifteen) days before the current CIPATR term ends, when available;
g) Holding the election on a regular workday, respecting shift schedules and timing that allows most employees to participate;
h) Secret ballot voting;
i) Vote counting during regular working hours, with employer and employee representatives present, as defined by the electoral commission; and
j) Organizing the election to ensure system security, confidentiality, and accurate vote recording.
31.5.14.5 If less than 50% (fifty percent) of employees vote, the votes will not be counted, and the electoral commission must organize a new vote within 10 (ten) days, which will be considered valid with at least one-third of employees participating.
31.5.14.6 Complaints about the electoral process must be filed with the regional office of the Labor Secretariat (STRAB) within 30 (thirty) days after the new CIPATR members’ inauguration.
31.5.14.7 The highest regional labor inspection authority, upon confirming electoral process irregularities, must order corrections or annul the election if necessary.
31.5.14.8 If annulled, the rural employer or equivalent must call a new election within 10 (ten) days from the notification date, maintaining previous registrations.
31.5.14.9 If annulled before the new CIPATR members’ inauguration, the previous term will be extended until the electoral process is completed.
31.5.14.10 The new CIPATR members will take office on the first business day after the previous term ends.
31.5.14.10.1 For the first term, the inauguration must occur within 45 (forty-five) days after the election.
31.5.14.11 The most voted candidates will assume the position of elected members.
31.5.14.12 In case of a tie, the candidate with the longest service time in the establishment will assume the position.
Operation
31.5.15 CIPATR will hold bimonthly regular meetings in an appropriate location during regular working hours, following the biannual calendar.
31.5.16 CIPATR meeting minutes must be signed by those present.
31.5.16.1 The minutes must be available to all workers in physical or electronic form.
31.5.17 In the case of a serious or fatal accident, CIPATR will hold an extraordinary meeting within five business days after the incident, with the responsible person from the accident site present.
31.5.18 A CIPATR member will lose their mandate if they miss more than four regular meetings without justification.
31.5.19 When the rural employer or equivalent hires service providers, the contracting company’s CIPATR, together with the contractor, must define mechanisms for integrating and involving all workers in CIPATR decisions.
31.5.20 Employee-elected CIPATR members cannot be arbitrarily dismissed, except for disciplinary, technical, economic, or financial reasons.
31.5.21 If there are no more voted but not elected candidates registered as indicated in item 31.5.5 of this NR, the rural employer or equivalent must hold an extraordinary election, provided the remaining term is more than 6 (six) months, which will be valid with at least one-third of employees participating.
31.5.21.1 The extraordinary election deadlines must be half of those in the electoral process.
31.5.21.2 The other requirements of the electoral process must be met.
31.5.21.3 The term of the member elected in an extraordinary election must align with the other members’ terms.
31.5.21.4 Training for the member elected in an extraordinary process must occur within 30 (thirty) days from the inauguration date.
Training
31.5.22 The rural employer or equivalent must provide semi-presential training for CIPATR members before taking office.
31.5.23 First-term CIPATR training must occur within 30 (thirty) days from the inauguration date.
31.5.24 CIPATR training must cover at least the following topics:
a) Concepts of organization, operation, importance, and role of CIPATR;
b) Study of working conditions with risk analysis from the production process in the field, as well as control measures;
c) Characterization and study of occupational accidents or illnesses, investigation and analysis methodology;
d) First aid concepts;
e) Labor and social security legislation concepts related to occupational health and safety;
f) Fire prevention and fighting concepts;
g) General principles of workplace hygiene;
h) Machine and equipment protection;
i) Ergonomics concepts; and
j) Prevention and combating of sexual harassment and other forms of workplace violence.
31.5.25 The training must have a minimum duration of 20 (twenty) hours, distributed in a maximum of 8 (eight) hours per day.
31.5.26 The rural employer or equivalent must provide the training specified in item 31.5.22 of this NR for the most voted but not elected employees, limited to the number of CIPATR elected members.
31.6 Personal Protective Measures
31.6.1 It is mandatory to provide workers with free Personal Protective Equipment (PPE), as per NR-6 (Personal Protective Equipment).
31.6.2 In addition to the PPE provided in NR-06, the employer must provide the following personal protection devices to workers based on the risks of each activity:
a) Legionnaire-style hat or cap for sun protection;
b) Face shield to prevent injuries caused by particles, splashes, chemical vapors, or safety glasses against aggressive liquids;
c) Leg guards against venomous animal bites;
d) Reflective vest or strips for signing;
e) Full-body clothing for biological protection;
f) Boots or shoes with smooth soles for activities involving animal riding; and
g) Special clothing for specific activities.
31.6.2.1 The employer must provide sunscreen if indicated in the PGRTR or if exposure to solar radiation is present without the adoption of collective or individual protective measures.
31.6.2.1.1 Sunscreen can be provided through a collective dispenser and its use is optional for the worker.
31.6.2.2 For the purposes of this Standard, personal protection devices are considered those intended for worker protection but not classified as PPE under Annex I of NR-06.
31.6.3 Personal protective equipment and personal protection devices must be adequate to the risks, maintained in good condition, and functional.
31.6.4 The employer must ensure that workers use PPE and personal protection devices.
31.6.5 The employer must guide the employee on the use of PPE and personal protection devices.
31.6.6 Regarding PPE and personal protection devices, the employee must:
a) Use them only for their intended purpose;
b) Be responsible for their storage and maintenance;
c) Report any alterations that render them unsuitable for use to the employer;
d) Comply with the employer’s instructions regarding proper use.
31.7 Pesticides, Additives, Adjuvants, and Related Products
31.7.1 For the purposes of this Standard, the following are considered:
a) Workers in direct exposure are those who handle pesticides, additives, adjuvants, and related products at any stage of storage, transportation, preparation, application, disposal, and decontamination of equipment and clothing; and
b) Workers in indirect exposure are those who do not directly handle pesticides, additives, adjuvants, and related products but work in areas adjacent to where these products are handled at any stage of storage, transportation, preparation, application, disposal, and decontamination of equipment and clothing, or who work in recently treated areas.
31.7.1.1 For the purposes of this NR, the transport and storage of sealed and unbroken packages are considered indirect exposure.
31.7.1.2 Instructions must be provided to workers who transport and store sealed and unbroken packages.
31.7.1.3 Instructions can be provided through Daily Safety Talks, written pamphlets, and other documented means by the employer.
31.7.1.4 The definition in item 31.7.1.1 of this Standard does not apply if there are unsealed or broken packages during transport and storage.
31.7.2 The rural employer or equivalent must remove pregnant and breastfeeding women from activities with direct or indirect exposure to pesticides, additives, adjuvants, and related products, including storage areas, immediately upon being informed of the pregnancy.
31.7.3 The following are prohibited:
a) Handling any pesticides, additives, adjuvants, and related products not registered and authorized by competent government agencies;
b) Handling any pesticides, additives, adjuvants, and related products by individuals under 18 years, over 60 years, and pregnant or breastfeeding women;
c) Handling any pesticides, additives, adjuvants, and related products in the workplace, contrary to the prescription and indications on the label and package insert, as per current legislation;
d) Working in recently treated areas before the reentry interval established on product labels, except with the use of recommended protective equipment;
e) Entry and stay of any person in the area to be treated during aerial spraying;
f) Entry and stay of any person in the area to be treated during pesticide application in protected crops, except the applicator;
g) Using personal clothing when applying pesticides;
h) Reusing empty pesticide containers, additives, adjuvants, and related products, including their lids, whose final disposal must comply with current legislation;
i) Storing empty or full containers of pesticides, additives, adjuvants, and related products contrary to the manufacturer’s package insert;
j) Transporting pesticides, additives, adjuvants, and related products in the same compartment containing food, feed, forage, personal, and household utensils;
k) Using tanks used for transporting pesticides, even if cleaned, for transporting potable water or any other product intended for human or animal consumption;
l) Washing vehicles transporting pesticides, additives, adjuvants, and related products in water collections; and
m) Simultaneously transporting workers and pesticides, additives, adjuvants, and related products in vehicles that do not have sealed compartments designed for this purpose.
31.7.4 The application of pesticides using a mechanized atomizer can only be carried out with a machine with an original manufacturer’s closed cabin or an adapted one.
31.7.4.1 The adapted closed cabin must have a ROPS (Roll-Over Protective Structure) in accordance with national or, in their absence, applicable international technical standards.
31.7.4.2 In cultivation methods where the use of an original or adapted closed cabin is unfeasible due to free height or row spacing, the rural employer or equivalent may use a mechanized atomizer towed by a machine without a closed cabin, provided the following conditions are simultaneously met:
a) Indication of the determining factors of infeasibility in the PGRTR, with objective indication of the preventive measures to be adopted;
b) Prohibition of using a coupled mechanized atomizer;
c) Prohibition of application in the same direction as the wind flow; and
d) Prohibition of application under other weather conditions that could cause drift towards the applicator.
31.7.4.2.1 The rural employer or equivalent must immediately stop the operation if the mist generated during the application reaches the operator.
31.7.5 The rural employer or equivalent must provide semi-presential or presential training on the prevention of accidents with pesticides, additives, adjuvants, and related products to all directly exposed workers.
31.7.5.1 The semi-presential or presential training provided in this Standard must be offered to workers in direct exposure through a program, with a minimum workload of 20 (twenty) hours, theoretical and practical, covering at least the following content:
a) Understanding direct and indirect exposure to pesticides, additives, adjuvants, and related products;
b) Knowledge of signs and symptoms of intoxication and first aid measures;
c) Safety labeling and signs;
d) Hygienic measures during and after work;
e) Use, cleaning, and maintenance of work clothing and personal protective equipment;
f) Correct use of application equipment.
31.7.5.2 The training must be provided by official rural extension bodies and services, educational institutions at the secondary and higher levels in agricultural sciences, National Rural Learning Service (SENAR), SESTR of the rural employer or equivalent, unions, rural producers’ associations, professional associations, agricultural or forestry production cooperatives, manufacturers of the respective products, or qualified professionals for this purpose, under the technical responsibility of a qualified professional who will be responsible for the adequacy of content, form, workload, instructor qualification, and student evaluation.
31.7.5.3 The rural employer or equivalent must supplement or conduct a new program when the provided training is found insufficient, with a minimum workload of 8 (eight) hours for supplementation and 16 (sixteen) hours for a new training program.
31.7.6 The rural employer or equivalent must adopt at least the following measures:
a) Provide personal protective equipment and work clothing suitable for the risks, prioritizing thermal comfort;
b) Provide personal protective equipment and work clothing in usable and properly sanitized conditions;
c) Be responsible for decontaminating work clothing and personal protective equipment at the end of each workday, replacing them as necessary;
d) Provide water, soap, and towels for personal hygiene at the work fronts;
e) Provide a place for bathing with water, soap, towels, and individual lockers for personal clothing storage;
f) Ensure no contaminated protective equipment or work clothing is taken outside the work environment, except when transported to specialized companies for decontamination; and
g) Ensure no protective devices or work clothing is reused before proper decontamination.
31.7.6.1 All workers involved in pesticide work are required to bathe after completing all activities involving the preparation and/or application of pesticides, additives, adjuvants, and related products, as per procedures established in the PGRTR.
31.7.7 The rural employer or equivalent must provide all workers with information on the use of pesticides, additives, adjuvants, and related products in the establishment, covering the following aspects:
a) Treated area: description of the general characteristics of the area, location, and type of application to be made, including the equipment to be used;
b) Commercial name of the product used;
c) Toxicological classification;
d) Date and time of application;
e) Reentry interval;
f) Safety interval/withdrawal period;
g) Necessary protection measures for workers in direct and indirect exposure; and
h) Measures to be taken in case of intoxication.
31.7.8 The rural employer or equivalent must signal treated areas, indicating the reentry period.
31.7.9 A worker showing symptoms of intoxication must be immediately removed from activities and transported for medical care, along with the information on the labels and package inserts of the pesticides, additives, adjuvants, and related products they were exposed to.
31.7.10 Application equipment for pesticides, additives, adjuvants, and related products must be:
a) Maintained and kept in functional condition, without leaks;
b) Inspected before each application;
c) Used for the intended purpose; and
d) Operated within the limits, specifications, and technical guidelines.
31.7.11 Maintenance, repair, and cleaning of equipment used for pesticide, additive, adjuvant, and related product applications can only be carried out by previously trained and protected persons.
31.7.12 Equipment cleaning must be performed in a way that does not contaminate wells, rivers, streams, and other water bodies.
31.7.13 Pesticides, additives, adjuvants, and related products must be kept in their original packaging, with their labels and package inserts.
31.7.14 Buildings for storing pesticides, additives, adjuvants, and related products must:
a) Have strong walls and roofs;
b) Have restricted access to workers trained to handle these products;
c) Have ventilation, exclusively communicating with the exterior and equipped with animal-proof protection;
d) Have signs or posters with danger symbols;
e) Allow for cleaning and decontamination; and
f) Be located at least 15 (fifteen) meters from housing and places where food, medicine, or other materials are stored or consumed.
31.7.14.1 The distance from water sources and courses to pesticide storage buildings must comply with current legislation.
31.7.15 Storage must comply with current legislation, manufacturer specifications on labels and package inserts, and the following basic recommendations:
a) Containers must be placed on pallets, avoiding floor contact, keeping stable stacks away from walls and ceilings, or in the cabinets mentioned in item 31.7.16 of this Standard; and
b) Flammable products must be stored in ventilated locations, protected from sparks and other sources of ignition.
31.7.16 Storage of pesticides, additives, and adjuvants up to 100 (one hundred) liters or 100 (one hundred) kilograms, or a combined total of liters and kilograms, can be done in exclusive cabinets, locked and sheltered from sun and weather, made of resistant material that allows for cleaning and does not promote flame propagation, located outside residences, living areas, and administrative areas, complying with items “b” and “d” of item 31.7.14 of this Standard, provided the following requirements are met:
a) Not located in the middle of passages for people or vehicles;
b) Not storing incompatible chemicals together in the same cabinet; and
c) Fixed to walls or floors to prevent tipping risks.
31.7.17 Pesticides, additives, adjuvants, and related products must be transported in labeled, resistant, and hermetically sealed containers.
31.7.17.1 Vehicles used for transporting pesticides, additives, adjuvants, and related products must be cleaned and decontaminated whenever intended for other purposes.
31.8 Ergonomics
31.8.1 The rural employer or equivalent must adopt ergonomic principles aimed at adapting working conditions to the workers’ psychophysiological characteristics, providing appropriate conditions of comfort and safety at work.
31.8.2 Working conditions include aspects related to lifting, transporting, and unloading materials, furniture, machines, and equipment, environmental conditions of the workstation, and the organization of work itself.
31.8.3 The rural employer or equivalent must conduct a preliminary survey of work situations that require adaptation to the workers’ psychophysiological characteristics to identify the need for preventive measures, which must be included in the PGRTR.
31.8.3.1 After the preliminary survey, if there is a need for preventive measures in work situations where the employer can act directly by implementing improvements or known solutions, specific action plans must be developed and implemented.
31.8.3.2 If the implementation of actions provided in item 31.8.3.1 does not lead to an effective result or requires more in-depth studies or analyses, an Ergonomic Work Analysis (EWA) of the work situation must be conducted according to applicable ergonomic principles.
31.8.4 The operation of machines, equipment, and implements, including their controls, control panels, and operation stations, must provide the worker with good posture, movement, and visualization conditions.
31.8.5 The furniture of the workstations must provide the worker with good posture, movement, and visualization conditions.
31.8.6 For activities that must necessarily be performed standing up, rest breaks must be provided.
31.8.7 In activities that require static or dynamic muscle overload, rest breaks and other organizational and administrative measures must be included.
31.8.8 The breaks provided in items 31.8.6 and 31.8.7 must be defined in the PGRTR.
31.9 Transportation of Workers
31.9.1 The collective transportation of workers must observe the following requirements:
a) Have specific authorization for the collective transportation of passengers, issued by the competent traffic authority, accompanied by the respective annual vehicle inspection;
b) Transport all passengers seated;
c) Be driven by a licensed driver, properly identified;
d) Have a sturdy and fixed compartment, separate from passengers, where tools and materials that pose health and safety risks to the worker must be transported, except for personal items;
e) Have a functioning and unalterable speed recording device (tachograph) when the capacity exceeds 10 (ten) seats; and
f) Have all applicable safety instructions for passengers during transportation in a visible place, according to relevant legislation.
31.9.1.1 For the purposes of this NR, if the collective transportation of workers is carried out directly by the rural employer or equivalent and, therefore, the competent public authority does not grant authorization for worker transportation, the authorization referred to in item “a” of item 31.9.1 is waived, provided that the vehicle used for collective worker transportation has a vehicle inspection certificate issued by an accredited company with the traffic authority or by a legally qualified professional with the issuance of a Technical Responsibility Note (ART).
31.9.2 The collective transportation of workers in adapted vehicles can only be carried out in exceptional situations, with prior authorization from the competent traffic authority, and the vehicle must meet the following minimum safety conditions:
a) Have a Vehicle Safety Certificate (CSV) issued by a Licensed Technical Institution (ITL) and an Annual Inspection Term issued by the competent authority to grant the traffic authorization;
b) Have an access ladder with a handrail, positioned in a location easily visible to the driver;
c) Have a body with a cover, handrails, and rigid side protection, with a free height of 2.10 m (two meters and ten centimeters), made of good quality and structurally resistant material to prevent crushing and projection of people in case of an accident;
d) Have a cabin and body with ventilation systems, ensuring communication between the driver and passengers;
e) Have seats, sufficient for all passengers, covered with foam, with backrests and seat belts, and fixed to the structure of the body;
f) Have a sturdy and fixed compartment, separate from passengers, where tools and materials that pose health and safety risks to the worker must be transported, except for personal items; and
g) Have all applicable safety instructions for passengers during transportation in a visible place, according to relevant legislation.
31.10 Electrical Installations
31.10.1 All parts of electrical installations must be designed, constructed, operated, and maintained to safely prevent the hazards of electric shock and other types of accidents.
31.10.2 The components of electrical installations must meet the following safety requirements:
a) Offer mechanical strength compatible with their use;
b) Have protection against the possibility of mechanical breakage, abrasive contacts, and contact with lubricants, fuels, moisture, and heat; and
c) Be protected by insulating materials that do not propagate fire.
31.10.2.1 Electrical distribution panels or switchboards must meet the following minimum safety requirements:
a) Have an access door kept permanently closed;
b) Be dimensioned with the capacity to install the components of the electrical circuits they contain;
c) Be made of materials resistant to the heat generated by the components of the installations;
d) Ensure that live parts are kept inaccessible and protected;
e) Have unobstructed access;
f) Be installed with sufficient space for maintenance and operation;
g) Be identified and marked regarding electrical hazard;
h) Comply with the required protection class; and
i) Have their circuits identified.
31.10.2.2 Electrical installations must have a protective grounding system in accordance with current national technical standards.
31.10.2.3 The conductive parts of electrical installations, machines, equipment, and electrical tools that are not part of the electrical circuit but may become energized in the event of insulation failure, must be connected to the protective grounding system.
31.10.3 Electrical installations that are or may be in direct or indirect contact with water must be designed with means and devices that ensure their shielding, waterproofing, insulation, and grounding to prevent accidents.
31.10.4 The tools used for interventions in electrical installations must have proper insulation.
31.10.5 Electrical interventions in electrical installations can only be performed by workers who are qualified, whether or not the training is provided by the employer.
31.10.6 Buildings must be protected by a Lightning Protection System, designed, constructed, and maintained according to current national technical standards.
31.10.6.1 Compliance with item 31.10.6 is waived in situations provided in current national technical standards, based on a report issued by a legally qualified professional.
31.10.7 Electric fences must be properly marked and installed according to the instructions of a legally qualified professional or the installation manual provided by the manufacturers.
31.10.8 In electrical installations in classified areas or areas with a high risk of fire or explosions, appropriate protection devices must be adopted, according to official technical standards.
31.11 Hand Tools
31.11.1 The employer must provide workers with appropriate tools and accessories free of charge, replacing them whenever necessary.
31.11.2 Tools must be safe and efficient, used exclusively for their intended purposes, and maintained in proper working condition.
31.11.3 Tool handles must provide good grip during handling, have a shape that favors the worker’s hand grip, and be fixed in such a way that they do not accidentally detach from the blade.
31.11.4 Cutting tools must be stored and transported in a sheath.
31.12 Safety in Machines, Equipment, and Implements
31.12.1 The provisions of this chapter apply to machines, equipment, and implements used in the activities specified in items 31.2.1 and 31.2.2 of this Standard.
General Principles
31.12.2 Machines, equipment, and implements must be used according to the manufacturer’s technical specifications and within the operational limits and restrictions indicated by them, and operated by trained, qualified, or certified workers for such functions.
31.12.2.1 This chapter does not apply to:
a) Machines and implements driven or powered by human or animal force;
b) Portable tools and transportable (semi-stationary) tools operated electrically, which meet the construction principles established in national technical standard type ‘C’ (general and specific) or, in the absence thereof, in applicable international technical standards;
c) Machines and equipment classified as household appliances;
d) Static equipment; and
e) Machines, equipment, and implements certified by INMETRO, provided that all technical construction requirements related to machine safety are met.
31.12.2.2 The provisions of item 31.12 apply to machines present in static equipment.
31.12.2.3 Observing new requirements arising from technical standards published after the date of manufacture, import, or adjustment of machines and equipment is not mandatory, provided they meet Annex XI of NR-12 (Machinery and Equipment Safety), published by SIT Ordinance No. 197, of December 17, 2010, and its subsequent amendments, as well as the technical standards in force at the time of their manufacture, import, or adjustment.
31.12.3 The protections, devices, and safety systems provided for in this Standard must be integrated into the machines, equipment, and implements from their manufacture and cannot be considered optional items for any purpose.
31.12.4 Safe movement of machines, equipment, and implements outside the physical facilities of the rural establishment is allowed for repairs, adjustments, technological modernization, deactivation, disassembly, and disposal.
31.12.5 Segregation, blocking, and signing to prevent the use of machines, equipment, and implements while awaiting repairs, safety adjustments, technological updating, deactivation, disassembly, and disposal are permitted.
31.12.6 Safety procedures and work permits, when necessary, must be developed and applied to ensure the safe operation, access, activation, inspection, maintenance, or any other interventions in machines, equipment, and implements.
31.12.7 The transportation of people on self-propelled machines and their implements is prohibited.
31.12.7.1 Exceptions to the prohibition in item 31.12.7 are self-propelled machines and their implements that have workstations designed for this purpose by the manufacturer or a legally qualified professional, provided that safety conditions are guaranteed as provided in this Standard.
31.12.8 The adaptation of trailed forage harvesters equipped with a self-feeding system to a manual feeding system is prohibited.
Starting, Activation, and Stopping Devices
31.12.9 The starting, activation, and stopping devices of stationary machines and equipment must be designed, selected, and installed so that:
a) They are not located in their hazardous zones;
b) They prevent involuntary activation or deactivation by the operator or any other accidental means;
c) They do not create additional risks;
d) They make tampering difficult; and
e) They can be activated or deactivated in an emergency by someone other than the operator.
31.12.10 The starting or activation controls of stationary machines and equipment must have devices that prevent their automatic operation when energized.
31.12.11 During temporary or prolonged stoppages of self-propelled machines, the operator must place the controls in a neutral or parking position, engage the brakes, and take all necessary measures to eliminate risks from movement or the displacement of implements or systems of the operated machine.
31.12.12 Stationary machines and equipment must have a locking system to prevent activation by unauthorized persons and, in the case of self-propelled machines, an ignition key to lock their activation devices.
Safety Systems
31.12.13 The hazard zones of machines, equipment, and implements must have safety systems, characterized by fixed guards, movable guards, and interlocked safety devices, to ensure the protection of workers’ health and physical integrity.
31.12.14 The adoption of safety systems, especially in operational zones presenting hazards, must consider the technical characteristics of the machine and the work process and existing technical measures and alternatives to achieve the necessary level of safety provided in this Standard.
31.12.15 Safety systems must be selected and installed to meet the following requirements:
a) Have a safety category according to the risk assessment provided in official technical standards;
b) Be under the technical responsibility of a legally qualified professional;
c) Have technical conformity with the control system they are integrated into;
d) Be installed in a way that makes tampering difficult;
e) Remain under automatic monitoring, if indicated by the risk assessment, according to the required safety category, except for purely mechanical safety devices; and
f) Stop dangerous movements and other hazards when failures or abnormal working conditions occur.
31.12.15.1 The installation of safety systems must be carried out by a legally qualified professional or a qualified or trained professional duly authorized by the rural employer or equivalent.
31.12.16 The functional components of the process and work areas of self-propelled machines and implements that need to be exposed for correct operation must be adequately protected to the maximum extent possible to allow the operational functionality for which they are intended, complying with current technical standards and the exceptions listed in Table 2 of Annex II of this Standard.
31.12.17 It is the responsibility of the rural employer or equivalent to maintain the safety systems in perfect condition and operation. The total or partial removal or neutralization of these systems, which pose a risk to the physical integrity of workers, is considered a grave and imminent risk.
31.12.18 For the purposes of this Standard, protection is considered the element specifically used to provide safety through a physical barrier, which may be:
a) Fixed protection, which must be kept in its position permanently or by means of fastening elements that only allow its removal or opening with the use of tools; or
b) Movable protection, which can be opened without the use of tools, generally linked by mechanical elements to the machine structure or a nearby fixed element, and must be associated with interlocking devices.
31.12.18.1 Self-propelled machines may have a simple mechanical interlocking device for protecting the engine compartment.
31.12.19 Protections must be designed and constructed to meet the following safety requirements:
a) Properly fulfill their functions throughout the machine’s life or allow the replacement of deteriorated or damaged parts;
b) Be made of resistant and suitable materials to contain the projection of parts, materials, and particles;
c) Have firm fastening and guarantee mechanical stability and resistance compatible with the required efforts;
d) Not create crushing or snagging points with machine parts or other protections;
e) Have no sharp edges or other dangerous protrusions;
f) Resist the environmental conditions of the installation location;
g) Make tampering difficult;
h) Provide conditions for hygiene and cleaning;
i) Prevent access to the hazard zone;
j) Have their interlocking devices for blocking hazardous machine functions adequately protected against dirt, dust, and corrosion, if necessary;
k) Have positive action, meaning they operate positively; and
l) Not create additional risks.
31.12.19.1 When the protection is made of discontinuous material, the safety distances to prevent access to hazard zones must be observed, as per Tables 4, 5, and 6 of Annex II of this Standard.
31.12.20 The components related to the safety systems and the activation and stopping controls of stationary machines and equipment, including emergency stops, must ensure the maintenance of the machine’s safe state when energy level fluctuations occur beyond the limits considered in the design, including power cut-off and restoration.
31.12.21 Protection must be movable when access to a hazard zone is required one or more times per work shift, noting that:
a) Protection must be associated with an interlocking device when its opening does not allow access to the hazard zone before the risk is eliminated; and
b) Protection must be associated with an interlocking device with blocking when its opening allows access to the hazard zone before the risk is eliminated.
31.12.21.1 For self-propelled machines and their implements, protection must be movable when access to a hazard zone is required more than once per work shift.
31.12.22 Machines, equipment, and implements equipped with movable protections associated with interlocking devices must:
a) Operate only when protections are closed;
b) Stop their hazardous functions when protections are opened during operation; and
c) Ensure that the closing of protections alone cannot initiate hazardous functions.
31.12.22.1 Self-propelled machines are exempt from complying with items “a” and “b” of item 31.12.22 for access during maintenance and inspection operations, provided they are performed by trained or qualified workers.
31.12.23 Interlocking devices with blocking associated with the movable protections of machines, equipment, and implements must:
a) Allow operation only while the protection is closed and blocked;
b) Keep the protection closed and blocked until the risk of injury due to the machine, equipment, or implement’s hazardous functions is eliminated; and
c) Ensure that the closing and blocking of the protection alone cannot initiate hazardous functions of the machine, equipment, or implement.
31.12.23.1 Self-propelled machines are exempt from complying with items “a” and “b” of item 31.12.23 for access during maintenance and inspection operations, provided they are performed by trained or qualified workers.
31.12.24 Power transmissions and their interconnected mobile components, accessible or exposed, must be protected by fixed or movable protections with interlocking devices that prevent access from all sides, except as provided in item 31.12.16 of this Standard and the exceptions listed in Table 2 of Annex II of this Standard.
31.12.25 Harvesting machines’ protections must be maintained with warning signs according to the manufacturer’s manual.
31.12.26 When movable protections are used for the enclosure of power transmissions with inertia, interlocking devices with blocking must be used.
31.12.27 The power take-off (PTO) shaft must have adequate protection, in perfect condition throughout its length, fixed to the machine’s power take-off from the universal joint to the implement or equipment coupling.
31.12.28 Machines, equipment, and implements that pose a risk of part rupture, projection of pieces, or processing material must have protections that ensure the health and safety of workers, except as provided in Tables 1 and 2 of Annex II of this Standard.
31.12.29 Mowers must have protection devices against the throwing of solid materials.
31.12.30 Machines for cutting, chopping, grinding, shredding, and similar must have safety systems that prevent the operator or others from coming into contact with their hazard zones.
31.12.31 Trailed forage harvesters manufactured 120 (one hundred and twenty) days after the publication of this NR must have a reverse system for the pick-up rollers, through mechanical actuation with a specific tool for reversal provided by the manufacturer, with usage and safety instructions described in the operations manual.
31.12.32 For remote protections of stationary machines where someone might be in the hazard zone, additional collective protection measures must be adopted to prevent machine start-up while there are people in this zone.
31.12.33 Feeding openings of machines, equipment, or implements located at or below the operator’s support point must have protection to prevent people from falling inside.
31.12.34 When the characteristics of the machine, equipment, or implement require that protections be used as an access means, these must meet the resistance and safety requirements suitable for both purposes.
31.12.35 The underside of steps or ladders must have a mirror-protection whenever a protruding part of the worker’s foot or hand might contact a hazard zone.
31.12.36 Batteries must maintain protection of the positive terminal to prevent accidental contact and short-circuit.
31.12.37 Self-propelled machines manufactured from May 2008, under the wording of NR-31, given by MTE Ordinance No. 86, of March 3, 2005, must have headlights, rear position lights, horn, rearview mirror, and an automatic reversing sound signal coupled to the transmission system, except for the exceptions listed in Table 1 of Annex II of this Standard.
31.12.37.1 Self-propelled machines manufactured before May 2008 must have headlights, a horn, and a rearview mirror.
31.12.38 Self-propelled machines must have a Rollover Protection Structure (ROPS) and seatbelt, except those listed in Table 1 of Annex II of this Standard, which must be used in accordance with the specifications and recommendations indicated in the manufacturer’s manuals.
31.12.38.1 Self-propelled machines manufactured before May 2008 are exempt from the obligation defined in item 31.12.38, provided they are used according to the manufacturer’s operational recommendations, especially regarding slope limits, speed, load, and application.
31.12.39 For self-propelled machines manufactured from May 2008, Table 3 of Annex II of this Standard should be consulted to verify the technical availability of ROPS.
31.12.40 The ROPS must:
a) Be purchased from the manufacturer or an authorized dealer;
b) Be installed according to the manufacturer’s recommendations; and
c) Meet the safety requirements established by current technical standards.
31.12.41 Self-propelled machines that pose a risk of falling objects onto the workstation during operation must have a Falling Object Protective Structure (FOPS).
31.12.42 On the Power Take-Off (PTO) of tractors, protection must be installed covering the top and sides, as shown in Figure 6 of Annex II of this Standard.
31.12.43 Machines, equipment, and trailed implements must have hitch systems for towing by the traction system, ensuring easy and safe coupling or decoupling and preventing accidental decoupling during use.
31.12.43.1 The indication of the use of hitch systems mentioned in item 31.12.43 must be placed in an easily visible location and affixed near the connection.
31.12.43.2 Trailed implements, if the drawbar weight so requires, must have a support device to reduce effort and ensure safe connection to the traction system.
31.12.43.3 The hitch operation must be done in an appropriate location and with the towed equipment securely immobilized with a chock or similar.
31.12.44 The operation of machines, equipment, and implements powered by internal combustion engines in enclosed spaces without ventilation is prohibited, except when gas elimination is ensured.
31.12.45 Chainsaws must have the following safety devices:
a) Manual and automatic chain brake;
b) Chain catcher pin;
c) Right-hand guard;
d) Left-hand guard;
e) Throttle safety lock; and
f) Vibration damping system.
31.12.45.1 Pole saws and similar equipment must have the devices listed in item 31.12.45, where applicable.
31.12.46 The rural employer or equivalent must provide semi-presential or presential training for all chainsaw and pole saw operators for the safe use of these machines, with a minimum duration of 16 (sixteen) hours, covering the instructional content related to their use as outlined in the instruction manual, plus the following practical content:
a) Risks in using chainsaws and pole saws, including noise, vibration, burns, cutting parts, handling fuels and lubricants, and sharpening chains;
b) Tree cutting techniques, including felling, fall direction, removal of cut trees suspended by branches of other trees, delimbing, and bucking/logging; and
c) Body postures to protect the spine and maintain balance during chainsaw and pole saw operation.
31.12.46.1 The rural employer or equivalent must provide semi-presential or presential training for all backpack brush cutter and harvester operators for the safe use of these machines, with a minimum duration of 4 (four) hours, covering the instructional content related to their use as outlined in the instruction manual.
Maintenance
31.12.47 Maintenance and adjustment activities must be performed by qualified or trained workers, with machines, equipment, and implements stopped and in compliance with the recommendations in the operation and safe maintenance manuals or instructions.
31.12.48 During machine, equipment, and implement maintenance, any defect in a part or component that compromises safety must be repaired or replaced immediately with an original or equivalent part or component to ensure the same safe usage characteristics and conditions.
31.12.49 Performing cleaning, lubrication, refueling, and adjustment with machines, equipment, and implements in operation is prohibited, except when movement is indispensable for these operations, in which case special measures for training, protection, and accident prevention signs must be taken, and item 31.12.50 of this NR must be observed, where applicable.
31.12.50 For special maintenance situations requiring access to risk areas, services must be performed using a continuous action command device and low speed or a limited movement command device – step by step, selected in a validation device.
31.12.51 During maintenance or inspection of harvesters, when protections are opened or accessed with exposure of machine elements that still have rotation or movement after power interruption, visible evidence of rotation, a sound signal indicating rotation, or appropriate safety adhesive must be in the nearby area.
31.12.51.1 Self-propelled machines and their implements are exempt from complying with item 31.12.51, provided they follow the safety procedures and requirements indicated in the manufacturer’s manual.
31.12.52 Fixed protections that can be removed may only be removed for cleaning, lubrication, repair, and adjustment, and upon completion of these services, they must be reinstalled.
31.12.53 Battery services and replacements must be carried out according to the guidelines in the operation manual provided by the manufacturer.
31.12.54 For tire assembly and disassembly activities posing accident risks, the manufacturer’s recommendations and the following conditions must be observed:
a) Tires must be completely depressurized by removing the core from the calibration valve before disassembly and any intervention that could cause accidents; and
b) Tire inflation can only be performed inside a closure or adequately sized cage until sufficient pressure is reached to seat the bead on the rim and create an airtight seal.
Material Conveyors
31.12.55 The hazardous movements of continuous material conveyors accessible during normal operation must be protected, especially at crushing, gripping, and trapping points.
31.12.55.1 The moving parts of continuous material conveyors must be kept lubricated and clean to prevent overheating and dust accumulation.
31.12.55.2 Exempt from the obligation of subitem 31.12.55 are conveyor belts installed in self-propelled machines and implements.
31.12.55.3 The requirements of subitem 31.12.55 apply to mobile loading and unloading conveyors, which are exempt from other requirements related to continuous conveyors.
31.12.56 Continuous belt conveyors with a belt edge height exceeding 2.70 meters (two meters and seventy centimeters) from the floor are exempt from compliance with subitem 31.12.55 of this NR, provided there is no circulation or presence of people in the danger zones.
31.12.57 Continuous belt conveyors with a belt edge height exceeding 2.70 meters (two meters and seventy centimeters) from the floor must have walkways on both sides throughout their length, meeting the requirements of item 6 and subitem 6.1 of Annex I of this Standard.
31.12.58 Conveyors with a belt width of up to 762 mm (seven hundred and sixty-two millimeters) or 30 (thirty) inches may have a walkway on only one side, with the use of mobile or elevating platforms for any interventions and inspections.
31.12.59 Continuous belt conveyors whose maintenance and/or inspection is carried out using mobile or elevating platforms, meeting the requirements of item 6 of Annex I of this Standard, or by means of metallic scaffolding, meeting the requirements of item 6 of Annex I of this Standard, are exempt from the obligation to comply with subitems 31.12.56 and 31.12.57 of this Standard.
31.12.60 The presence and circulation of people on parts of continuous material conveyors that are in motion or may come into motion are prohibited unless designed for such purposes.
31.12.61 The presence and circulation of people on continuous material conveyors must be carried out through walkways with fall protection systems, in accordance with item 6 and subitem 6.1 of Annex I of this Standard.
31.12.62 Continuous conveyors accessible to workers must have emergency stop devices along their length, so they can be activated from all working positions.
31.12.62.1 Continuous conveyors accessible to workers are exempt from the requirement of subitem 31.12.62 if the risk analysis indicates so.
31.12.63 Continuous belt conveyors where abnormal belt misalignment or material overload poses accident risks must have devices ensuring safety in case of failure during normal operation and interrupt operation when safety limits are exceeded, as specified in the design.
31.12.64 The presence and circulation of people under continuous conveyors are only allowed in protected areas that offer adequate resistance and dimensions against material falls.
Pressurized Components
31.12.65 The hydraulic lifting cylinders of machines, equipment, and implements must have safety systems to prevent falls in case of pressure loss in the hydraulic system.
31.12.65.1 The safety systems must be mounted directly on the cylinder body, or if this is not possible, rigid tubing, welded or flanged, must be used between the cylinder and the valve.
31.12.65.2 The hoses used in pressurized systems must indicate the maximum allowable working pressure specified by the manufacturer.
31.12.65.3 The hoses and connections of pressurized equipment must have auxiliary devices to ensure the containment of hoses, preventing ricochet in case of accidental detachment.
Safety Training
31.12.66 The rural employer or equivalent must be responsible for the training of workers for the safe handling and operation of machines, equipment, and implements, in a manner compatible with their functions and activities.
31.12.67 The training must:
a) occur before the worker assumes the function;
b) be provided by the employer or equivalent, at no cost to the employee;
c) be specific to the machine, equipment, or implement the employee will operate;
d) respect the daily work hour limit; and
e) be conducted by the employer’s SESTR, manufacturers, official rural extension agencies, educational institutions of secondary and higher levels in agricultural sciences, the National Rural Learning Service (SENAR), unions, rural producer associations, professional associations, agricultural or forestry production cooperatives, or professionals qualified for this purpose, supervised by a qualified professional who will be responsible for the adequacy of the content, form, workload, instructor qualifications, and student evaluation.
31.12.68 The training program for stationary machines must include theoretical and practical parts, with the following minimum content:
a) description and identification of risks associated with each machine, equipment, and implement, and the specific protections against each risk;
b) operation of protections, how and why they should be used;
c) how, by whom, and in what circumstances a protection can be removed;
d) what to do if a protection is damaged or loses its function, failing to ensure adequate safety;
e) principles of safety in machine use;
f) safety for mechanical, electrical, and other relevant risks;
g) safe work procedure;
h) work order or permit; and
i) machine and implement lockout system during inspection and maintenance.
31.12.69 The training of operators of self-propelled machines and implements must comply with the training program, with theoretical and practical stages, a minimum workload of 24 (twenty-four) hours, distributed in a maximum of 8 (eight) hours daily, respecting the daily work shift, and the following program content:
a) occupational health and safety legislation and basic traffic legislation;
b) identification of risk-generating sources to the worker’s physical integrity and health;
c) basic information about accidents and diseases resulting from exposure to existing risks in the machine and implements;
d) risk control measures: Collective Protective Equipment and Personal Protective Equipment;
e) safe operation of the machine and implements;
f) safe inspection, regulation, and maintenance;
g) safety signs;
h) emergency procedures; and
i) basic first aid information.
31.12.70 The practical part of the training can be carried out on the machine, equipment, or implement that the worker will operate and must have a minimum workload of 12 (twelve) hours, be supervised and documented.
31.12.70.1 The written or audiovisual teaching material used in this safety training must be produced in Brazilian Portuguese and in language appropriate to the workers.
31.12.71 Retraining of the worker must be carried out whenever significant changes occur in the facilities and the operation of machines, equipment, and implements or changes in methods, processes, and work organization.
31.12.71.1 The retraining program content must meet the needs of the situation that motivated it, with a workload that ensures workers perform their activities safely, respecting the daily work hour limit.
Manuals
31.12.72 Machines, equipment, and implements must have an instruction manual provided by the manufacturer or importer, with safety information on the phases of transport, assembly, installation, adjustment, operation, cleaning, maintenance, inspection, deactivation, and dismantling, which must be kept on the premises, in original format or copy, and the employer must make it available to operators.
31.12.73 When the manual of machines, equipment, or implements that present risks is missing or lost, the employer or designated person must prepare an information sheet containing the following items:
a) type, model, and capacity;
b) description of the intended use of the machine or equipment;
c) indication of existing safety measures;
d) instructions for the safe use of the machine, equipment, or implement, with the manufacturer’s operational recommendations, especially regarding slope limits, speed, load, and application;
e) periodicity and instructions for inspections and maintenance; and
f) procedures to be adopted in emergency situations, when applicable.
31.12.74 For the purposes of applying this NR, Annexes I and II include obligations, special provisions, or exceptions that apply to machines, equipment, and implements.
Dryers, Silos, and Confined Spaces
31.13.1 Dryers must be designed and assembled under the responsibility of a legally qualified professional to ensure the safety and health of workers during their operations.
31.13.2 Dryers and silos must undergo maintenance in accordance with the manufacturer’s operation and maintenance manual, ensuring at least:
a) integrity of the refractory material linings;
b) cleaning of the columns and ducts for hot air injection and intake;
c) checking the burner adjustment, when present;
d) checking the electrical heating system, when present; and
e) periodic cleaning of air filters, when present.
31.13.2.1 Maintenance of dryers and silos must be recorded for each piece of equipment in a dedicated book, record, or computerized system, with the following data:
a) interventions performed;
b) date of each intervention;
c) service performed;
d) parts repaired or replaced;
e) conclusive indication of the machine’s safety conditions; and
f) name of the person responsible for executing the interventions.
31.13.3 Dryers powered by gaseous or liquid fuels must have a protection system:
a) to prevent explosions due to flame failure and/or burner activation; and
b) to prevent flame backdraft.
31.13.4 Silos must be designed, assembled, and maintained under the responsibility of a legally qualified professional, according to the loads and stresses prescribed by the manufacturer, on soil compatible with the working loads, and used to store only the products for which they were designed.
31.13.4.1 Assembly, disassembly, and installation services in silos and interconnected structures must be performed by the manufacturer or a company recommended or authorized by the manufacturer.
31.13.4.2 Silos must have internal linings, elevators, and feeding systems that prevent the accumulation of grains and dust, the formation of barriers, and must have devices to control the risks of spontaneous combustion.
31.13.5 Access to the top of silos must:
a) be via a staircase with steps, spiral or similar type, with rest and arrival platforms, incorporated into the silo structure, and made of weather and corrosion-resistant material;
b) have an inclined ladder with steps in the roof section and a platform at the central collar of the silo if there is a risk of falling; and
c) have a guardrail, with an upper crossbar between 1.10 m (one meter and ten centimeters) and 1.20 m (one meter and twenty centimeters), an intermediate crossbar at a height of 0.70 m (seventy centimeters), and a toe board at a height of 0.20 m (twenty centimeters), installed on stairs, platforms, and the upper external part of the silo.
31.13.5.1 The requirements set out in subitems “a” and “c” of item 31.13.5 do not apply to silos installed and assembled before this NR came into effect.
31.13.6 Access to the interior of silos is only allowed:
a) when absolutely necessary, provided they are not in operation;
b) with the presence of at least two workers, one of whom must remain outside;
c) using a Collective Fall Protection System (CFPS) or Personal Fall Protection System (SPIQ), anchored to the silo structure, allowing for worker rescue in emergencies; and
d) after assessing the risks of engulfment, drowning, burial, and suffocation, and adopting measures to control these risks.
31.13.7 Maintenance services involving welding, cutting operations, or those generating static electricity must be preceded by a special permit, in which the risks and necessary controls are analyzed.
31.13.8 In hermetically sealed silos, worker entry is only permitted after air renewal or with appropriate respiratory protection.
31.13.9 Silo loading, unloading, and maintenance procedures must be carried out according to the operation and maintenance manuals provided by the manufacturer, which must be kept at the establishment and made available to workers.
31.13.10 During silo operation intervals, the rural employer or equivalent must adopt preventive measures to minimize worker inhalation of dust and the risk of fire and explosions caused by dust.
31.13.11 Stacks of stored materials must be arranged in a way that does not pose accident risks.
31.13.12 “Bag” and “trench” silos must be assembled, maintained, and dismantled according to the manufacturer’s and/or technical responsible recommendations.
31.13.13 A confined space is any area not designed for continuous human occupancy, with limited means of entry and exit or an internal configuration that may trap or suffocate a worker, where ventilation is non-existent or insufficient to remove hazardous contaminants and/or oxygen deficiency/enrichment that may exist or develop, or that contains material with the potential to engulf/drown a worker entering the space.
31.13.13.1 The characterization of silos, hoppers, grain boxes, tunnels, bucket elevator pits, hoppers, tanks, tunnels, enclosed material conveyors, dryers, and cisterns as confined spaces must be based on the conditions set out in subitem 31.13.13.
31.13.13.2 The rural employer or equivalent who has a confined space must:
a) formally appoint the technical responsible for the establishment’s confined spaces;
b) provide signs and locks to the confined space to prevent unauthorized entry;
c) assess and control physical, chemical, biological, ergonomic, and mechanical risks;
d) evaluate the atmosphere in the confined space before worker entry to verify if the interior is safe;
e) implement necessary measures to eliminate or control atmospheric risks in confined spaces;
f) ensure access to the confined space only occurs after the issuance, in writing, of the Entry Permit;
g) continuously monitor the atmosphere in the confined space throughout the work duration; and
h) maintain acceptable atmospheric conditions at entry and throughout the work period through an adequate ventilation system.
31.13.13.3 Electrical installations in classified areas or fire-risk areas must have appropriate protective devices in accordance with official technical standards.
31.13.13.4 Equipment for evaluating atmospheric risks must be calibrated and periodically subjected to response testing.
31.13.13.5 The rural employer or equivalent must provide theoretical and practical training for entry supervisors, watchers, and authorized workers on their rights, duties, risks, and control measures.
31.13.13.6 Initial training for entry supervisors must have a workload of 40 (forty) hours, with the following content:
a) definitions;
b) risk recognition, assessment, and control;
c) operation of used equipment;
d) procedures and use of the Entry Permit;
e) basics of rescue and first aid;
f) identification of confined spaces;
g) criteria for indicating and using equipment for risk control;
h) knowledge of safe practices in confined spaces;
i) occupational health and safety legislation;
j) respiratory protection program;
k) classified area; and
l) rescue operations.
31.13.13.7 Initial training for watchers and authorized workers must have a workload of 16 (sixteen) hours, with the content outlined in items “a”, “b”, “c”, “d”, and “g” of subitem 31.13.13.6 of this Standard.
31.13.13.8 Entry supervisors, watchers, and authorized workers must receive periodic training every 12 (twelve) months, with a minimum workload of 8 (eight) hours.
31.13.13.9 Upon completion of the training, a certificate must be issued containing the worker’s and instructors’ names, the program content, the workload, the specification of the type of work and confined space, the date and location of the training, and the signature of the technical responsible.
31.13.13.10 The entry supervisor is responsible for issuing the Entry Permit before starting activities, performing tests, verifying the equipment and procedures contained in the Entry Permit, and closing the Entry Permit after the completion of services.
31.13.13.11 The watcher is responsible for keeping an accurate count of the number of authorized workers in the confined space and ensuring that all exit upon completion of the activity, remaining outside the confined space, near the entrance, in permanent contact with authorized workers, operating the people movers, and ordering the evacuation of the confined space upon recognizing any risk.
31.13.13.12 Work in confined spaces must be accompanied by an entry supervisor or watcher outside the space during the entire period.
31.13.13.13 The rural employer or equivalent must designate workers for emergency and rescue situations and provide training with a workload compatible with the complexity of the confined spaces and activities performed, as well as possible accident scenarios.
31.14 Handling and Storage of Materials
31.14.1 The lifting, transport, loading, unloading, handling, and storage of products and materials must be carried out in a manner that ensures the physical effort made by the worker is compatible with their safety, health, and strength capacity.
31.14.2 Whenever technically possible and when it does not render the activity unfeasible, the movement of loads must be carried out in a mechanized manner, using appropriate machines and equipment.
31.14.2.1 If mechanization of the transport and movement of loads is technically unfeasible, the employer must, in accordance with the preliminary assessment or Ergonomic Work Analysis (EWA):
a) limit the duration, frequency, and number of movements to be performed by the workers;
b) adjust the weight and volume of the load;
c) reduce the distances to be covered with the load; and
d) alternate with other activities or implement sufficient breaks.
31.14.3 Operators of transportation equipment with their own driving power must receive specific training to carry out the operation within the property.
31.14.3.1 In the case of circulation on public roads, the operator must have a license in accordance with traffic legislation.
31.14.4 Manual transport carts must have a handle.
31.14.5 The method of loading and unloading trucks must be compatible with the type of body used, ensuring safety conditions throughout the operation.
31.14.6 The ladders or ramps used by workers for loading and unloading trucks must ensure safety conditions and avoid excessive physical effort.
31.14.7 Storage must comply with the special safety requirements for each type of material, maintaining a minimum distance of at least 0.50 m (fifty centimeters) from the lateral structures of the building, considering the floor load capacity and not obstructing passages.
31.14.8 Stacks of bags and “big bags” must be assembled and maintained to ensure their stability and have a maximum height based on the shape and strength of the packaging materials, to avoid posing risks to workers.
31.14.9 For manual loading and unloading operations of bags located above 2 m (two meters) in height, the worker must have the assistance of a helper.
31.14.10 In material movement and storage activities, protective measures against falls must be adopted for work performed above 2 m (two meters) in height with risk of worker falls.
31.14.11 Any worker designated for the regular manual lifting, handling, and transportation of loads must receive training or instructions on the work methods to be used, aiming to safeguard their health and prevent accidents.
31.14.12 The weight supported by a worker during manual transport of loads must be compatible with their strength capacity and not compromise their health.
31.14.13 The transport and unloading of materials by pushing or pulling carts on rails, handcarts, or any other mechanical device must be executed so that the physical effort made by the worker is compatible with their health, safety, and strength capacity.
31.14.14 The transportation of loads within the internal area of the rural property must ensure the safety of workers and observe:
a) the technical specifications of the vehicle, trailer, and semi-trailer, as determined by the manufacturer;
b) the operational limits and restrictions of the vehicle, trailer, and semi-trailer, as indicated by the manufacturer; and
c) the condition of the traffic route.
31.15 Work at Height
31.15.1 This chapter applies only to activities involving installation, assembly, maintenance, inspection, cleaning, or conservation of machines, equipment, implements, or rural buildings, carried out above 2 m (two meters) from the lower level, where there is a risk of falling.
31.15.1.1 Preventive measures against the risk of falls in harvesting and cultural practices must be established in the Rural Risk Management Plan (PGRTR), applying in this case only subitem 31.15.9 and its subitems of this chapter.
31.15.2 The rural employer or equivalent must identify, through a Risk Analysis – RA, the routine and non-routine activities of work at height, determine, and implement protective measures against the risk of falling.
31.15.2.1 The Risk Analysis must consider: inherent risks of working at height; the location where the services will be performed; weather conditions; the risk of falling materials; and additional risks.
31.15.3 All work at height must be carried out under supervision, the form of which must be defined by the risk analysis according to the peculiarities of the activity.
31.15.4 The fall protection measures must:
a) be defined in the PGRTR;
b) be appropriate to the task to be performed; and
c) be selected by a qualified safety professional.
31.15.5 Routine activities of work at height must be preceded by an operational procedure.
31.15.6 Non-routine work at height activities must be previously authorized through a Work Permit.
31.15.7 Every worker designated for work at height must undergo specific clinical and additional examinations for the function they will perform, as defined in the PGRTR, with the issuance of the respective Occupational Health Certificate (ASO).
31.15.7.1 Fitness for work at height must be recorded in the worker’s ASO.
31.15.8 It is prohibited to designate workers for work at height without prior training.
31.15.9 A worker is considered qualified for work at height if they have been subjected to and passed semi-presential or presential, theoretical, and practical training with a minimum duration of 8 (eight) hours, the program content of which must include at least:
a) applicable regulations and standards for work at height;
b) risk analysis and prohibitive conditions;
c) potential risks inherent to work at height and prevention and control measures;
d) collective protection systems, equipment, and procedures;
e) personal protective equipment for work at height: selection, inspection, maintenance, and limitation of use; and
f) conduct in emergency situations, including basic rescue techniques and first aid.
31.15.9.1 In cultural practices and harvesting activities, the duration of semi-presential or presential training for work at height must be provided for in the PGRTR, and cannot be less than 2 (two) hours.
31.15.9.2 At the end of the training, a certificate must be issued containing the worker’s name, the program content, the duration, the date, the location of the training, the name and qualification of the instructors, and the signature of the person responsible.
31.15.9.3 The training must be conducted by instructors with proven proficiency in the subject, under the responsibility of a qualified safety professional.
31.15.9.4 Training for work at height can be conducted in conjunction with other training sessions.
31.15.10 The rural employer or equivalent must ensure that emergency and rescue procedures for work at height are included in the PGRTR.
31.16 Rural Buildings
31.16.1 The structures of rural buildings must be designed, executed, and maintained to withstand the permanent and mobile loads they are intended for.
31.16.2 The floors of indoor workplaces in rural buildings must not have defects that impair the circulation of workers or the movement of materials.
31.16.3 Openings in floors and walls must be protected to prevent the fall of workers or materials.
31.16.4 In stairs, ramps, corridors, and other areas intended for the circulation of workers and the movement of materials that pose a risk of slipping, anti-slip materials or processes must be used.
31.16.5 On floors above ground level and in stairs, ramps, corridors, and other areas intended for the circulation of workers and the movement of materials, measures must be taken to protect against the risk of falling.
31.16.6 The roofs of workplaces must provide protection against the weather.
31.16.7 Fixed rural buildings, according to their intended use, must:
a) provide protection against moisture;
b) be designed and constructed to avoid excessive or insufficient sunlight;
c) have adequate ventilation and lighting for the work activities they are intended for;
d) be subject to constant cleaning and disinfection processes to neutralize the harmful effects of pathogenic agents; and
e) be equipped with a basic sanitation system for the collection of water used in cleaning and disinfection, to prevent environmental contamination.
31.16.8 In fixed rural buildings, measures must be taken to preserve the safety and health of those who work there and fire prevention measures, in accordance with state legislation.
31.16.9 The adequacy of safety measures must be carried out in accordance with current laws, considering the building’s historical, religious, and cultural characteristics.
31.17 Sanitary and Comfort Conditions in Rural Work
31.17.1 The rural employer or equivalent must provide workers with living areas composed of:
a) sanitary facilities;
b) dining areas;
c) lodging;
d) an appropriate place for food preparation, except when the food is prepared outside the property; and
e) laundries.
31.17.1.1 Compliance with items “c”, “d”, and “e” of subitem 31.17.1 is only mandatory when workers are lodged.
31.17.2 The living areas must:
a) be kept in conditions of conservation, cleanliness, and hygiene;
b) have walls made of masonry, wood, or other equivalent material that ensures structural resistance;
c) have a cemented floor, wood, or other equivalent material;
d) have a roof that protects against the weather; and
e) be provided with adequate lighting and ventilation.
31.17.2.1 The use of living areas for purposes other than those intended is allowed, provided that:
a) it does not pose a risk to the safety and health of workers;
b) it does not restrict its use; and
c) it does not compromise the comfort and rest conditions for the workers.
31.17.2.1.1 Living area facilities not used by workers may be utilized for storing materials and products, provided these do not pose risks to the safety and health of workers and do not restrict the use of the living area.
31.17.3 Fixed Sanitary Facilities
31.17.3.1 The fixed sanitary facilities must consist of:
a) a washbasin, in the proportion of 1 (one) unit for every group of 20 (twenty) workers or fraction thereof;
b) a siphoned toilet bowl with a seat and lid, in the proportion of 1 (one) unit for every group of 20 (twenty) workers or fraction thereof;
c) a urinal, in the proportion of 1 (one) unit for every group of 20 (twenty) workers or fraction thereof; and
d) a shower, in the proportion of 1 (one) unit for every group of 10 (ten) workers or fraction thereof, when there is exposure or handling of toxic substances and when workers are lodged.
31.17.3.2 In the trough-type urinal, each segment of 0.60 m (sixty centimeters) must correspond to 1 (one) basin-type urinal.
31.17.3.3 The fixed sanitary facilities must:
a) have access doors that prevent exposure, constructed to maintain privacy;
b) be separated by gender;
c) be located in easily and safely accessible places;
d) provide clean water, soap or soap dispensers, and paper towels;
e) be connected to a sewage system, septic tank, or equivalent system; and
f) provide toilet paper and have a container for trash collection.
31.17.3.3.1 In administrative sectors with up to 10 (ten) workers, a single individual sanitary facility for common use between genders may be provided, provided hygiene and privacy conditions are ensured.
31.17.3.3.1.1 Item “b” of subitem 31.17.3.3 does not apply to rural establishments with up to 5 (five) workers who use the sanitary facility of the main office, provided hygiene and privacy conditions are ensured.
31.17.3.4 The compartments for toilets and showers must:
a) be individual and maintained in conditions of conservation, cleanliness, and hygiene;
b) have partitions with a height that maintains interior privacy and a lower gap to facilitate cleaning and ventilation;
c) have independent doors with locks that prevent exposure; and
d) have floors and walls covered with impermeable and washable material.
31.17.3.4.1 The compartments for showers, in addition to the requirements in subitem 31.17.3.4, must have holders for soap and towels.
31.17.3.4.2 The compartments for toilets must have dimensions according to the local building code or, in its absence, must have a free area of at least 0.60 m (sixty centimeters) in diameter between the front edge of the toilet bowl and the closed door.
31.17.3.5 The water for bathing must be provided at a temperature in accordance with the customs and practices of the region.
31.17.4 Fixed Dining Areas
31.17.4.1 The fixed dining areas must meet the following requirements:
a) provide hygiene and comfort;
b) have the capacity to accommodate workers with enough seats, considering the meal break schedules;
c) provide clean water for hygiene;
d) have tables with smooth, washable, or disposable surfaces or covers;
e) provide potable water in hygienic conditions, with the use of communal cups prohibited;
f) have containers with lids for trash; and
g) provide a place or container for the storage and conservation of meals in hygienic conditions.
31.17.5 Sanitary Facilities and Dining and Rest Areas at Work Fronts
31.17.5.1 At work fronts, fixed or mobile sanitary facilities must be provided, consisting of a toilet and a washbasin, in the proportion of 1 (one) set for every group of 40 (forty) workers or fraction thereof.
31.17.5.2 The fixed sanitary facility must meet the requirements of subitems 31.17.2 and 31.17.3.3 of this Standard.
31.17.5.3 The mobile sanitary facilities must meet subitem 31.17.3.3 of this Standard, with the use of a dry pit allowed, and must also meet the following requirements:
a) be maintained in conditions of conservation, cleanliness, and hygiene;
b) have side closures and a roof that ensures structural safety;
c) be anchored and fixed to ensure stability and resistance to weather conditions; and d) be provided with adequate lighting and ventilation.
31.17.5.4 At work fronts, dining and rest areas must offer protection to all workers against the weather and meet the requirements established in subitem 31.17.4.1 of this Standard.
31.17.5.5 The requirements in subitem 31.17.5 and its subitems do not apply to itinerant activities, provided that workers are guaranteed access to sanitary facilities and dining areas by any means of transport.
31.17.5.5.1 The exception provided in subitem 31.17.5.5 does not apply to work fronts.
31.17.5.6 At work fronts located in swampy terrain, the sanitary facilities and dining areas must be installed in a dry place outside the flooded area, ensuring worker access.
31.17.6 Lodging
31.17.6.1 The dormitories in the lodging must have:
a) a ratio of at least 3.00 m² (three square meters) per single bed or 4.50 m² (four square meters and fifty centimeters) per bunk bed, including the circulation area and the wardrobe, or alternatively, beds separated by at least 1 m (one meter);
b) beds in quantity corresponding to the number of workers lodged in the room, with the use of 3 (three) or more beds in the same vertical prohibited, ensuring vertical and horizontal spacing that allows safe movement of workers;
c) beds with a mattress certified by INMETRO;
d) upper bunk beds with side protection and a ladder fixed to the structure;
e) lockers with individual compartments for storing personal items;
f) doors and windows capable of providing sealing and security;
g) adequate lighting and ventilation;
h) trash containers; and
i) gender separation.
31.17.6.1.1 Beds can be replaced by hammocks, according to local custom, maintaining a minimum spacing of 1 m (one meter) between them.
31.17.6.2 The rural employer or equivalent must provide bed linen appropriate to local climatic conditions.
31.17.6.3 The use of stoves, cookers, or similar devices inside dormitory rooms in lodging is prohibited.
31.17.6.4 Workers lodged with suspected infectious-contagious diseases must undergo medical evaluation, which will decide whether they should be removed or remain in the lodging.
31.17.6.5 The sanitary facilities in the lodging must meet the requirements described in subitem 31.17.3 and its subitems of this Standard.
31.17.6.6 The dining areas in the lodging must meet the requirements of subitem 31.17.4 and its subitems of this Standard.
31.17.6.7 The meal preparation areas must:
a) be equipped with washbasins exclusively for the staff handling food;
b) have a garbage collection system;
c) have exclusive sanitary facilities for the staff handling food; and
d) not have a direct connection with sanitary facilities and dormitories.
31.17.6.7.1 Meal preparation areas for up to 10 (ten) workers are exempt from meeting items “c” and “d” of subitem 31.17.6.7.
31.17.6.8 Liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) storage containers must be installed in a ventilated outdoor area, following relevant Brazilian technical standards.
31.17.6.9 The laundries must be:
a) installed in a covered and ventilated location so that lodged workers can wash personal clothing; and
b) equipped with individual or collective tanks and clean water.
31.17.6.10 In the lodging, a place for the social interaction or leisure of the lodged workers must be provided, with the dining area being used for this purpose.
31.17.6.11 The employer is allowed to use houses for lodging even outside the establishment, provided they comply with the provisions of subitem 31.17.6 and its subitems of this Standard, except for items “c” and “d” of subitem 31.17.6.7.
31.17.7 Housing
31.17.7.1 Whenever the rural employer or equivalent provides family housing for workers, these must have:
a) capacity sized for a family;
b) walls made of masonry, wood, or other equivalent material that ensures safe structural conditions;
c) floors made of resistant and washable material;
d) adequate lighting and ventilation;
e) a roof capable of providing protection against weather conditions;
f) a well or water tank protected against contamination; and
g) sanitary facilities connected to a sewage system, septic tank, or equivalent.
31.17.7.2 When using septic tanks in the absence of a sewage system, they must be placed away from the house and the water well, in a flood-free location and downstream of the well.
31.17.7.3 Family housing for workers must be built in an airy location, at least 30 m (thirty meters) away from hay and manure storage, barns, stables, pigsties, and any breeding pens, except those for the family’s use.
31.17.7.4 Only one family must reside in each house.
31.17.7.5 Occupants of housing provided by the employer must ensure its conservation, cleanliness, and hygiene.
31.17.8 General Sanitary and Comfort Provisions
31.17.8.1 The rural employer or equivalent must provide sufficient fresh drinking water at work sites.
31.17.8.2 Potable water must be provided in hygienic conditions, with the use of communal cups prohibited.
31.17.8.3 The employer may choose to use external services for lodging, laundry, meal provision, and restaurants, provided they are duly authorized by the public authority to provide these services.
31.17.8.3.1 When contracting external lodging services, the employer must:
a) observe the capacity established in the operating license, not housing more workers than authorized by the public authority;
b) assess the hygiene and comfort conditions of the location;
c) separate workers by gender, except for family ties.
31.17.8.3.2 When the employer uses the full capacity of the external lodging service, the contract must ensure the maintenance of hygiene conditions.