Proposal to Update Permissible Limit Values for Chemical Agents in the Work Environment in Peru

In an effort to protect the health of workers and update regulations in line with scientific and technological advances, the Peruvian Ministry of Health (MINSA) has announced a proposed revision of Annexes I, II, and III of the Regulation on Permissible Limit Values for Chemical Agents in the Work Environment, approved by Supreme Decree No. 015-2005-SA. The revision (Ministerial Resolution No. 454-2024-MINSA) is open for public comment for 15 days from 4 July 2024.

Background and Considerations

The proposal is based on File No. 2024-0103450, which includes reports from the Directorate General of Strategic Interventions in Public Health and the General Office of Legal Advice of MINSA. The initiative complies with several legal and regulatory frameworks, including the Political Constitution of Peru, ILO Convention No. 139 on Occupational Cancer and Andean Decision 584.

These frameworks require the State to regulate and protect the health of workers, particularly from chemical substances and carcinogenic agents, and to ensure a safe working environment.

Proposed Revision

Supreme Decree No. 015-2005-SA requires that the permissible limits be updated every two years to include new substances based on scientific progress. The Directorate General of Strategic Interventions in Public Health, through the Occupational Health and Disability Unit, has requested the publication of these updated projects in order to gather feedback from both public and private entities as well as the general public.

Publication and Consultation Procedure

The proposal will be published for fifteen calendar days in the Official Gazette El Peruano and the relevant electronic portals, allowing interested parties to comment on the proposed measures. This procedure is in accordance with the Regulation for the Publication and Dissemination of General Legal Norms, approved by Supreme Decree No. 001-2009-JUS.

Importance of the Update

Updating the permissible limit values for chemical agents is essential to reduce exposure risks and protect workers' health. This effort not only meets the legal and constitutional obligations, but also reinforces the Peruvian State's commitment to promoting a safe and healthy working environment.

Comments received during the consultation period will be evaluated for the final implementation of the updated values, ensuring that the regulations reflect the current needs and realities of the working environment.