Another matter deserving business owners' attention is a recent decision by Justice André Mendonça of the Supreme Federal Court (STF), which suspended for 90 days the application of fines and other sanctions related to the provisions of Regulatory Standard No. 1 (NR-1) addressing psychosocial risks in the workplace.
The decision was handed down in Claim of Non-Compliance with a Fundamental Precept No. 1,316 (ADPF 1.316) and, according to press reports, was based on the need for clearer, more objective criteria for inspections and the application of penalties.
The injunction, however, did not revoke NR-1, nor did it remove companies' duty to look after their employees' health and safety.
Suspending the fines does not mean suspending the obligations
This point is crucial: the temporary suspension of penalties should not be read as a license for inaction.
Quite the opposite. The court debate itself shows that psychosocial risks — such as workplace bullying, sexual harassment, abusive targets, work overload, toxic environments, discrimination, internal conflicts and management failures — have taken centre stage on companies' labour, regulatory and reputational agendas.
Even though there is ongoing debate over the objective criteria for issuing fines, companies' duty to prevent these risks remains fully in force.
What companies should do during this period
Companies should use this period not to wait, but to get organised.
It is advisable to review internal policies, reporting channels, training programmes, codes of conduct, management practices, internal investigation procedures and documents related to occupational health and safety.
Preventing psychosocial risks should not be treated merely as a regulatory obligation, but as part of a healthy, safe and legally sound corporate culture.
The importance of prevention and labour compliance
Petereit Advogados Associados helps companies draft and review internal policies aimed at preventing psychosocial risks, workplace bullying, sexual harassment, discrimination, abusive management practices and other labour compliance matters.
The firm also structures certified training programmes for leaders and employees, using accessible language and a practical focus on reducing labour liabilities.
A moment to strengthen governance
The STF's ruling paused the application of sanctions, but it did not suspend the need for care.
Companies that act proactively, document their practices, and train their teams reduce risk, protect their people, and demonstrate greater management maturity.
Labour Team
Petereit Advogados Associados
