New Royal Decree on the service of the family home: what obligations do individuals have now?

 

This change represents a significant step towards professionalizing the domestic sector and equalizing preventive rights for domestic workers.

Who does this new regulation affect?

All individuals who hire household staff, whether for hours, part-time, or full-time.

In other words, any person who has hired domestic help must comply with these obligations, regardless of the duration or type of workday.

What obligations do private employers have?

The Royal Decree establishes a series of requirements that employers must take into account. Below, we summarize the main ones:

1. Elaborate a risk assessment

A risk assessment must be carried out, identifying possible hazards arising from household tasks (cleaning, handling of chemicals, physical effort, etc.) and establishing appropriate preventive measures.

2. Provide personal protective equipment (PPE)

If the tasks require it, the employer must provide suitable PPEs (such as gloves, non-slip footwear, or specific protections for the use of cleaning products).

3. Provide training in risk prevention

The worker must receive specific training on how to carry out their activity safely, the correct use of PPEs, and the prevention of risks in the domestic environment.

4. Inform about the risks of the position

In addition to training, it is mandatory to provide clear and understandable information about the specific risks of the position and the preventive measures that must be applied.

5. Ensure the possibility of a medical check-up

The decree recognizes the right of the worker to access health surveillance related to their activity, that is, to a voluntary medical check-up.

What happens if these obligations are not met?

Non-compliance with this regulation may have legal consequences and economic sanctions. It also increases the risk of accidents and incidents in the home.

This new framework reinforces the protection of a historically vulnerable group, and requires individuals to take on new responsibilities as employers.

At Valero Tax Legal, we help individuals to properly adapt to this new regulation:
Development of specific risk assessments for the home
Advice on mandatory training and information
Legal support to ensure regulatory compliance
If you have hired personnel in your home, this is the time to review your legal obligations.