The “Chair Law” in Mexico: Ending Long Hours Standing at Work
A Major Change in Mexican Labor Law
In Mexico, a labor reform known informally as the “Chair Law” has entered into force to protect employees who spend prolonged periods of time standing during their work shifts. The reform modifies several articles of the Federal Labor Law (Ley Federal del Trabajo, LFT) to guarantee the right of workers to rest seated during the workday, when the nature of their duties allows it.
Signed into law on December 19, 2024, and published in the Official Gazette of the Federation, the Chair Law became effective on June 17, 2025. Employers were given 180 days to adapt their internal policies and workplaces so that employees have access to chairs with proper backrests and the ability to sit periodically while working.
What the Law Requires Employers to Do
The reform introduces new obligations and prohibitions for employers, fundamentally focused on health and dignity in the workplace:
Provide Adequate Seating
Employers must make available chairs or seats with backrests for employees whose tasks are normally conducted standing up. These chairs must be sufficient in number and appropriate for periodic rest during the workday.
Allow Periodic Rest
Workers cannot be required to remain standing throughout their entire shift without the opportunity to sit down. This right applies when the nature of the job allows it, and where seating does not interfere with operations.
Update Internal Work Regulations
Companies must revise their internal work regulations to include requirements for rest periods and the proper use of chairs during the workday.
Areas for Rest
If seating cannot be placed directly at the work station due to safety or operational restrictions, employers must designate specific rest areas within the workplace where employees can sit during breaks.
Who Is Covered by the Law
The law applies broadly to workers in sectors where prolonged standing is common, such as:
- Retail and commerce
- Hospitality and restaurants
- Security services
- Customer service and call centers
- Industrial operations (when the job allows seating)
In these roles, companies must assess which positions require solutions — whether seating at the work front or designated rest areas.
Health and Ergonomic Rationale
Prolonged standing has well-documented negative effects on health, including:
- Musculoskeletal strain
- Circulatory issues
- Back pain and fatigue
- Varicose veins and joint stress
International labor standards also recognize the importance of ergonomic measures to protect workers who stand for long periods. Although specific rest times are not prescribed in the law, health experts often recommend periodic sitting opportunities during long shifts.
Timeline and Compliance Deadlines
The Chair Law took effect on June 17, 2025, but employers were given until December 14, 2025 (180 calendar days from the law’s entry into force) to fully align internal policies, rest areas, and seating provisions with the new legal requirements.
In addition, the Ministry of Labor and Social Welfare (STPS) issued occupational risk provisions on July 17, 2025, reinforcing ergonomic assessments and compliance measurement.
Penalties for Non-Compliance
Failure to comply with the Chair Law can result in sanctions under the Federal Labor Law. These may include:
- Administrative fines ranging from 250 to 5,000 times the UMA (Unit of Measurement and Update)
- Increased labor inspections focused on compliance
- In repeated or serious cases, temporary suspension of business operations
Employers are advised to document ergonomic assessments, seating inventory, rest policies, and training to demonstrate compliance during inspections.
Why It Matters for Employers and Workers
The Chair Law represents a significant strengthening of worker protections in Mexico. It brings the country closer to international best practices for occupational health and dignity in the workplace.
For employers, the law means rethinking:
- Workplace design
- Rest policies
- Employee health programs
- Safety and ergonomic evaluations
From a human resources perspective, the law reinforces that even long-standing traditions — such as requiring employees to stay on their feet “for company image” — are no longer acceptable if they harm worker health.
Conclusion
Mexico’s Chair Law fundamentally changes how employers must treat workers whose jobs involve standing for long periods. By mandating seating accommodations and periodic rest opportunities, the reform aims to protect worker health, prevent long-term injuries, and uphold worker dignity.
Organizations should review their internal policies and physical work environments now to ensure compliance and avoid penalties as enforcement intensifies.
