Circular 03/2025/TT-BLDTBXH Regulations on Labor Classification Standards Based on Working Conditions: Improving Working Conditions and Protecting Workers' Health

On February 11, 2025, the Ministry of Labor, Invalids and Social Affairs issued Circular 03/2025/TT-BLDTBXH regarding the labor classification standards based on working conditions. This circular marks a significant step forward in improving labor management practices, enhancing working conditions, and protecting workers' health at businesses, production facilities, and in sectors with special safety requirements.

I. Objectives and Importance of the Circular

The primary goal of Circular 03/2025/TT-BLDTBXH is to establish a clear legal framework for classifying working conditions. This framework not only ensures workers' rights but also serves as an effective tool for employers and regulatory authorities to implement preventive measures, control, and improve working conditions. As a result, this circular helps reduce workplace accidents and occupational diseases.

This circular will replace Circular 29/2021/TT-BLDTBXH, making it crucial for all stakeholders to fully understand the new regulations.

II. Scope of Application of the Circular

This circular applies to various entities, including:

• Agencies, organizations, and individuals responsible for labor classification: These entities are tasked with organizing the classification of occupations and jobs based on working conditions.

• Employers: In accordance with the Labor Safety and Hygiene Law, employers are responsible for classifying working conditions at their workplace and ensuring safety measures for workers.

• Workers: This includes employees working under labor contracts, officials, civil servants, public employees, and even those not under contracts, all of whom will be classified based on their job's working conditions.

III. Types of Working Conditions

The circular defines six types of working conditions based on the level of physical strain, toxicity, and danger involved in the work:

• Types I, II, III: These are jobs and occupations with non-strenuous, non-toxic, and non-hazardous working conditions. Workers in these jobs are not exposed to harmful factors affecting their health or safety.

• Type IV: Jobs with strenuous, toxic, or hazardous working conditions. These are occupations that expose workers to dangerous factors, potentially affecting their health, including the risk of work-related accidents.

• Types V, VI: Jobs with extremely strenuous, toxic, or hazardous working conditions. These jobs require workers to operate in environments with high levels of risk, negatively impacting health over time, possibly leading to severe consequences.

IV. Methods for Classifying Working Conditions

Article 4 of the Circular outlines the methods for classifying working conditions, based on both scientific evaluations and practical assessments to determine the hazards of each job. The main methods include:

1. Evaluation and Scoring Method:

   • This method uses quantitative indicators to assess and classify working conditions. The process includes:
     • Identifying specific jobs to assess.
     • Evaluating biological factors affecting workers, such as noise, radiation, temperature, humidity, and harmful chemicals.
     • Using a scoring scale to rate the intensity of strain, toxicity, and risk.
     • Calculating an average score to determine the appropriate labor condition category (Type I, II, III, IV, V, or VI).

2. Statistical and Experience Method:

   • This method uses statistical data on workplace accidents and occupational diseases to classify jobs with special working conditions.

3. Combination Method:

   • This method combines scientific evaluation with expert opinions and environmental monitoring results for a more comprehensive and accurate understanding of working conditions.

V. Effective Date and Implementation Regulations

Circular 03/2025/TT-BLDTBXH will come into effect on April 1, 2025, and will replace Circular 29/2021/TT-BLDTBXH.

Responsibilities of Relevant Parties:

• Regulatory bodies: These organizations are responsible for controlling hazardous factors and improving the working conditions of workers. Additionally, they are tasked with overseeing and guiding the implementation of the Circular's provisions.
• Employers: They must classify the working conditions of their employees and take appropriate measures to improve safety.

VI. Conclusion

Circular 03/2025/TT-BLDTBXH aims to enhance labor management efficiency and protect the health of workers in various working conditions. This circular not only helps organizations and employers classify and accurately evaluate hazardous factors in the work environment but also ensures better working conditions, contributing to the protection of workers' health and safety.

By adopting these standards, a safer working environment can be established, safeguarding workers' rights and ensuring compliance with labor and occupational safety laws.

Make sure you are well-informed about the provisions of Circular 03/2025/TT-BLDTBXH to effectively apply them in managing labor at your workplace.