The Labor Court will now notify the Attorney General's Office (AGU) whenever a company is held responsible for a work-related accident. This change is the result of a cooperation agreement signed between the Labor Court, the AGU and the Federal Attorney General's Office (PGF) and may have significant financial and operational impacts for companies.
With this measure, the companies held responsible may even be required to reimburse the INSS for the costs of accident benefits paid to workers on leave.
Between 2012 and 2022, the INSS disbursed R$136.7 billion in these benefits, and this amount currently exceeds R$163 billion. The new measure allows companies to be charged directly for reimbursement of these amounts, if fault for the accident is proven.
Main impacts for companies:
· Financial responsibility: companies are subject to reimbursing the INSS, which can generate high and unexpected costs.
· Increased operating expenses: In addition to reimbursement, companies may face costs related to legal proceedings, fines and additional charges.
· Damage to reputation: cases of accidents and occupational illnesses can negatively affect the company's image, compromising relationships with customers, suppliers and employees.
· Need for adaptation: investing in workplace safety will be essential to minimize risks and avoid losses.
Companies that adopt preventive measures and invest in the safety of their employees will be more financially protected and will contribute to the construction of safer and more productive work environments.
Does your company monitor employee absences?
The Labor Law team at Simões Ribeiro Lawyers remains attentive to updates in the area and is available to clarify any doubts on the subject.
