Regulatory Standard No. 1 (NR-1) represents a milestone in Brazilian labor legislation and will come into force on May 26, 2026.
Its main novelty is the incorporation of psychosocial risk management into the workplace, making it compulsory to adopt preventive measures to protect workers' mental health, including stress, bullying, burnout and work overload.
Although the formal entry into force has been postponed, the audit of the standard began on May 26, 2025. Companies and employees should start preparing for the changes now, with a focus on organizational diagnosis, leadership training and the creation of wellness programs.
The impact of NR-1 on mental health and psychological safety
The alarming increase in sick leave due to mental disorders in Brazil demonstrates the urgency of addressing psychological safety as part of business management. According to a survey by g1In 2024, more than 472,000 sick leaves due to anxiety and depression were recorded by the INSS, an increase of 68% compared to the previous year.
The inclusion of psychosocial risks in NR-1 reinforces the need for more inclusive and healthy working environments. Factors such as Diversity, Equity, Inclusion and Belonging (DEIP) are essential to mitigate the negative impacts on workers' mental health and to build safe, healthy and productive working environments.
Main aspects of NR-1
- Occupational Risk Management (ORM) establishes a continuous process of improving working conditions to prevent accidents and occupational illnesses, and is mandatory for all companies, regardless of size or sector.
- The Risk Management Program (RMP) is one of the main instruments of the GRO and must contain:
Risk inventory, which identifies and assesses the occupational risks present in the workplace.
Action plan, which defines risk prevention and control measures in the workplace.
- Working people's rights and duties guarantee access to information about safety and the structure of the workplace, reinforcing responsibility for complying with the rules.
- Training establishes requirements for the training of employees, guaranteeing knowledge and preparation for a safer and healthier environment.
NR-1 and DEIP: building safe environments
Diversity, equity, inclusion and belonging (DEIP) are more than values; they represent essential business strategies for compliance with NR-1. Companies that promote psychological safety reduce the risk of sick leave and improve indicators such as engagement and productivity.
More than a diversity censusPlurieBR's Diversity X-Ray offers a strategic approach to adapting to NR-1:
- Analyze the company's overall situation, providing a comprehensive view of diversity and inclusion and assessing the organization's level of maturity.
- Measuring the level of belonging, assessing how employees perceive inclusion, support and psychological safety within the company. This indicator identifies areas for improvement to strengthen a more welcoming, safe and secure working environment. equitable.
- Mapping harassment risks, identifying vulnerabilities in the workplace and helping to implement preventive strategies.
- Monitor data in real time, ensuring alignment with safe and inclusive practices.
- Planning strategic actions, strengthening the organizational culture and reducing labor risks.
In addition to the mapping carried out by the Diversity X-Ray, PlurieBR also supports companies in the training of teams and leaders required by NR-1, strengthening a safer and more inclusive environment.
Organizations that structure DEIP programs strengthen a culture of respect, promote gender equity and create safer spaces for minority groups. Inclusive leadership plays a central role in ensuring that diversity and occupational safety policies are integrated.
Turning NR-1 into an opportunity
The strategic use of data facilitates adaptation to the new standard and drives real changes in corporate culture. Companies that integrate DEIP into risk management meet legal requirements and build environments that are more innovative and prepared for the future of work.
In a highly competitive environment, companies that fail to adapt to this new reality could lose market share. The approach brought in by NR-1, together with the possibility of certification, is connected to global trends of investment in more balanced working environments. As well as promoting well-being, this change contributes to a reduction in sick leave costs and an increase in productivity.
PlurieBR is ready to support your organization on this journey, providing insights, tools and strategies to turn diversity into a competitive advantage.