3.15 Regulatory Norms (NRs) for Occupational Safety: NR 16 - Dangerous Activities and Operations

Regulatory Norm 16 (NR 16), entitled Dangerous Activities and Operations, is one of the norms established by the Brazilian Ministry of Labor and Employment (MTE). This standard was created with the aim of regulating activities and operations considered dangerous, providing greater safety to workers who are exposed to these working conditions.

Definition of Dangerous Activities and Operations

According to NR 16, dangerous activities and operations are considered to be all those that, by their nature or method of work, imply a marked risk due to the permanent exposure of the worker to flammable, explosive or electrical energy, as well as to work in personal or property security activities.

Dangerous Work Charge

The NR 16 also establishes the mandatory payment of premium for hazardous work to workers who carry out dangerous activities or operations. This additional amount corresponds to 30% of the worker's salary, without including gratuities, prizes or participation in the company's profits.

Dangerous Activities and Operations according to NR 16

NR 16 classifies dangerous activities and operations into different categories, according to the type of risk to which the worker is exposed. Among the categories are: activities involving explosives; activities involving flammables; activities involving ionizing radiation or radioactive substances; activities that involve exposure to theft or other types of physical violence in professional activities involving personal or property security; among others.

Prevention and Safety

NR 16 establishes a series of prevention and safety measures that must be adopted by companies to minimize the risks associated with dangerous activities and operations. Among these measures are the implementation of programs to prevent environmental risks, carrying out safety training, the use of individual and collective protection equipment, among others.

Conclusion

NR 16 is an extremely important standard for work safety in Brazil, as it regulates activities and operations considered dangerous and establishes prevention and safety measures to protect workers who are exposed to these working conditions. Therefore, it is essential that companies and workers are aware of and comply with this standard.

This e-book aims to provide in-depth knowledge about NR 16 and other regulatory standards for work safety. We hope that it will be a useful tool for all professionals in the work safety area, contributing to the promotion of a safer and healthier work environment for everyone.