NOM-017-STPS-2024 is a key regulation that establishes guidelines for the selection, use and management of personal protective equipment (PPE) within workplaces in Mexico. This standard aims to protect the health and safety of workers, establishing concrete obligations for employers and those responsible for occupational safety. In a competitive and regulated business environment, complying with this standard is not only essential to avoid legal sanctions, but also to reduce workplace incidents and promote an effective prevention culture.
In this article, we will address the essential aspects of the standard, the corporate responsibilities for compliance and the best practices to implement a comprehensive PPE program that ensures safety, traceability and legality in any productive sector.
What is NOM-017-STPS-2024 and what does it regulate?
Officially published in the Official Gazette of the Federation, NOM-017-STPS-2024 mainly regulates:
- The assessment of occupational risks to identify specific hazards in each workplace.
- The appropriate selection of personal protective equipment according to detected risks and in compatibility with other technical and administrative safety measures.
- Ensuring that the PPE used has the correct fit and size for each worker.
- Providing ongoing training on the use, maintenance and limitations of the equipment.
- Establishing clear procedures for the cleaning, storage and disposal of PPE.
- Maintaining delivery and verification records to ensure traceability and compliance.
Responsibilities of employers and safety officers
Regulatory compliance under NOM-017-STPS-2024 requires that employers and safety officers implement a series of structured actions:
Occupational risk assessment
An accurate diagnosis must be carried out to identify the threats and risks inherent to each work area. This assessment is the basis for selecting the appropriate PPE that truly protects the worker against specific risks.
Selection and provision of PPE
Equipment must comply with official certifications, be in good condition, have the appropriate size and be compatible with other control elements; moreover, it must be provided in a timely and documented manner.
Training and education
Courses and workshops should be provided where workers learn:
- How to correctly use PPE.
- Its maintenance and cleaning.
- Procedures to report faults or replacements.
Periodic inspections and audits
This practice allows detecting deviations, deterioration or non-compliance in the use of PPE and in management processes, ensuring a constant cycle of improvement and compliance.
Implementation of a PPE documentation program
To facilitate comprehensive management and legal compliance, it is recommended that companies implement a documentation program that includes the following elements:
- Delivery and replacement policies: clear guidelines on when and how PPE will be provided to workers.
- Delivery record: signed documents that prove receipt of the equipment.
- Ongoing training: schedule and records of the trainings carried out.
- Periodic inspections: checklists to review the condition and correct use of PPE.
- Internal audits: systematic evaluations to verify regulatory compliance and the effectiveness of the program.
Implementing a documentation program promotes legal responsibility, improves industrial safety and minimizes occupational risks, key elements for any company.
Sources and additional resources
To broaden understanding and stay updated on occupational safety and health matters, it is recommended to consult the following references:
- Official Gazette of the Federation – Official publication of standards and regulations.
- Secretariat of Labor and Social Welfare – Portal with official information about NOM-017-STPS-2024.
- International Labour Organization (ILO) – International resources on occupational safety.
- OSHA – Personal Protective Equipment – Good practices and international standards.
Conclusion
NOM-017-STPS-2024 establishes an indispensable framework for the effective protection of workers through rigorous control of personal protective equipment. Adopting its guidelines promotes not only wellbeing and safety in workplaces, but also ensures companies a responsible and transparent regulatory compliance.
