The work-related illness table is a tool for both companies and professionals that includes the possible pathologies derived from work performance. It includes different types such as mental disorders, occupational cancers, and diseases ranging from parasitic to endocrine.
The Table of Diseases is provided for and regulated in Articles 513, 514, and 515 of the Federal Labor Law. However, since its promulgation in 1970, it has not been updated, despite the increase in work-related illnesses and diseases in recent decades.
On April 12, 2023, the Chamber of Deputies approved the increase in the different illnesses included in the Work-Related Illness Table. This increase consists of raising the number of diseases and/or accidents that an employee may suffer from 161 to 194. Among the new illnesses considered are COVID-19, insomnia, anxiety, and depression, among others.
The reform project also stipulates that the Ministry of Labor and Social Welfare (STPS) should review the list at least every 5 years, or if there are scientific investigations that justify it, the list should be updated to include new illnesses that endanger the integrity of the labor sector.
In the specific case where a worker presents any type of illness, accident, and/or disease resulting from the employment relationship, the severity of the incapacity or work risk will be determined by the Mexican Social Security Institute (IMSS), which may be temporary, partial, or even permanent depending on the case.
It is important to note that employers must consider implementing and promoting work risk prevention or illnesses through the Joint Health and Safety Commission or, failing that, through various health organizations in support of the worker. The more accidents they have within the company, the higher the premium they will pay, and the fewer accidents they have, the lower the premium will be.
As a result, once the reform is voted on and approved by the Senate, it will be published in the Official Gazette of the Federation for its entry into force.
If you require advice on the aforementioned reform and its scope, the labor department of Vega, Guerrero and Associates is at your service.
