#Panama 🇵🇦 #BDS_LaborAlert: New General Regulations on Benefits under the Occupational Risk Insurance System (CSS)

The Social Security Administration (CSS) recently approved the new General Regulations on Benefits under the Occupational Risk Insurance System through Resolution No. 58,443-2026-J.D. This resolution repeals the previous regime and establishes an updated framework for managing workplace accidents and occupational diseases in Panama.

This new regulation introduces relevant changes that directly impact how companies must manage, document, and report occupational risks, including:

• Enhanced requirements for the timely reporting, documentation, and traceability of workplace accidents. The CSS now requires greater accuracy in the information provided to reduce errors in the event management.
• The establishment of more technical criteria for the evaluation, monitoring, and control of temporary and permanent disabilities. This leads to increased oversight by the CSS and less discretion in granting or extending certified medical leaves.

The regulation incorporates broader definitions of workplace accidents and occupational diseases, including situations indirectly related to work activities or occurring outside the usual workplace, which may increase employers’ exposure.

The processes for the recognition of benefits, compensation, and other entitlements are now more structured, requiring complete and properly supported case files.

The monitoring, auditing, and review powers of the CSS are strengthened, resulting in more compliance requirements for companies in the management of occupational risks.

The regulation aligns with occupational health and safety obligations, emphasizing the importance of implementing preventive measures and occupational risk management programs.

Implications for Companies

With the entry into force of the new regulation, companies may face an increased administrative burden in handling workplace accidents and certified medical leaves, and therefore the need to strengthen internal documentation and reporting processes.

Companies may also experience an increase in observations or rejections by the CSS in light of formal non-compliance events due to a potential expansion in the scope of incidents considered occupational risks.

Recommendations

• Review and update internal accident reporting procedures.
• Strengthen document controls and case file management.
• Train Human Resources and operational teams on the new requirements.
• Assess and reinforce occupational health and safety programs.

The new regulation represents a significant shift toward a more technical, formal, and supervised system, requiring companies to enhance their organization, control, and compliance in the management of occupational risks.

Companies should conduct an internal review of their processes to ensure alignment with this new regulatory framework.

Our team remains available to assist you with any questions related to this new regulation. Contact us.