In an increasingly inter-connected corporate world, the potential for international regulatory changes to impact multinational organizations can’t be underestimated. A pertinent case in point is Mexico’s recent update to workplace safety standards keeping in view the surge in teleworking.
According to a report by JD Supra, Mexico is introducing a new standard for health and safety in telework conditions, the Mexican Official Standard NOM-037-STPS-2023. Becoming enforceable on December 5, 2023, this standard will mandate employers, operating in Mexico, to comply with specific guidelines when managing remote employees.
With the large-scale shift to remote work in response to the global pandemic, it’s increasingly crucial that companies actively work to meet these legal obligations. However, the challenge lies in embracing this new normal while also ensuring their remote workers’ health, safety, and wellness. Multinational companies with operations in Mexico will particularly need to urgently adapt their compliance strategies to remain in line with this imminent regulatory change.
For legal professionals working in global corporations or formulating advisories for their large clients with Mexican operations, the requirements of NOM-037 slider may underscore a need for reconsidering existing policies and procedures related to remote work. Details regarding the specific stipulations within NOM-037 are yet to be released, but there is no doubt that compliance will necessitate a refiguring of current telework infrastructure.
This move by Mexico, while necessary, will demand more comprehensive measures for health and safety than ever before, especially considering the rise of teleworking. Hence, for companies majorly relying on remote working, there is a strong case for investing time and resources to understand and align with the specifics of NOM-037.
A final word of advice for the leaders of businesses with operations in Mexico – this is your cue for a proactive response. It may be in your best interest to revise your organization’s telework policies sooner rather than later to ensure a seamless transition when the regulations take effect.