The Spanish Council of Ministers has recently approved a procedure to establish coefficients that allow for early retirement in the social security system for the most arduous or dangerous activities. Elma Saiz, Minister of Inclusion, Social Security and Migration, highlighted that many jobs worsen significantly in the final years of a career, with data supporting the existence of occupations with higher rates of work-related accidents and associated illnesses.

The new guidelines focus on objectively identified criteria based on scientific evidence to pinpoint exceptionally strenuous or hazardous occupations that suffer from high morbidity or mortality rates. Workers in such roles, when improvement of working conditions is unfeasible, will be permitted to retire earlier than standard retirement age. Saiz noted this approach aligns with similar policies in European countries, reinforcing social justice throughout the workforce.

The criteria detailed include factors such as exposure to harmful noise, physical exertion, toxic substances, and unhealthy work environments. A specific formula will assess the justification for applying the early retirement coefficients, incorporating indicators like temporary disability rates, permanent incapacity, and average durations of these issues.

This new model will not affect job categories already entitled to early retirement like those in maritime, mining, or flight professions. Furthermore, the process also reflected on updating criteria for self-employed workers, aiming to create a fairer framework based on actual earnings. The initiative is set to enhance the overall social security system for workers in Spain.