Collective reparation for psychological damages caused by offenses against a balanced work environment

Abstract

The work environment is defined as the place where work activities are carried out, which has factors that interfere with the quality of life and the physical and psychological integrity of workers. In this context, if the work environment is not ecologically balanced, the exercise of the fundamental right to work will be affected. Indeed, the Federal Constitution, in its article 225, guarantees everyone the right to an ecologically balanced environment, imposing on the Public Authorities and the community the duty to defend and preserve it. Furthermore, article 200, item VIII, advocates for the protection of the environment, including the work environment. Also, article 3, item I of Law No. Law 6.938/81 defines the environment as the set of conditions, laws, influences, and interactions of a physical, chemical, and biological nature that allows, shelters, and governs life in all its forms, linking the quality of the environment to the health and well-being of the population. Therefore, collective redress for psychological damages caused by the employer is imperative as a way to punish their harmful conduct and prevent future misconduct.