Mexican Employers Face Compliance Challenges Under New Chair Law

What's Happening?

The Chair Law (Ley Silla), enacted in December 2024 and enforceable since June 2025, has raised significant concerns among employers in Mexico. The law mandates that employers analyze their workplaces to determine if adjustments are needed, particularly for employees who stand for more than three continuous hours. While initially focused on the retail industry, the law applies to all sectors, requiring evidence of workplace analysis and necessary adjustments. The complementary health and safety dispositions, published on July 17, 2025, provide guidelines for this analysis, emphasizing the prevention of health risks associated with prolonged standing. Employers are not required to ensure employees are seated at all times but must prioritize safety and designate seating areas for breaks.

Why It's Important?

The Chair Law represents a significant shift in workplace health and safety regulations in Mexico, impacting various industries beyond retail. Employers must navigate new compliance requirements, potentially incurring costs for workplace adjustments. The law aims to improve employee working conditions, reducing health risks associated with prolonged standing. This development highlights the growing emphasis on employee welfare and safety in labor regulations, which could influence similar legislative efforts in other countries. Businesses must balance compliance with operational efficiency, potentially affecting productivity and employee satisfaction.

What's Next?

Employers in Mexico will need to conduct thorough analyses of their workplaces to ensure compliance with the Chair Law. This may involve consulting with health and safety experts to implement feasible corrective actions. As the law is relatively new, further clarifications and adjustments to its implementation may arise, requiring ongoing attention from businesses. The broader impact on labor practices and employee rights could lead to increased advocacy for similar regulations in other regions, potentially influencing international labor standards.