In Japan, corporations face penalties for negligent heat management.
Japan Cracks Down on Worker Safety in Sweltering Heat
In an effort to safeguard workers from the scorching heat, Japan has introduced strict measures. The need for these rules became apparent after 30 workers lost their lives, and over 1200 were injured due to extreme heat conditions in 2024. Most of these incidents occurred within the construction and industrial sectors.
From now on, employers that neglect their employee's safety in the face of soaring temperatures may face significant repercussions, including fines totaling 500,000 yen (roughly two million tenge). These penalties are a clear indication that ensuring safety during heatwaves is no longer optional.
Employers are now required to establish protocols to swiftly recognize and assist workers showing signs of heatstroke. These protocols may include using a buddy system at worksites, distributing wearable devices to monitor employees, and providing speedy transportation to hospitals or clinics.
To monitor heat stress in the workplace, the new rules mandate the use of the Wet Bulb Globe Temperature (WBGT) index. Employers must take measures to mitigate heat if the WBGT index exceeds 28 degrees, or if the temperature remains above 31 degrees for an hour or more, or if it breaches 31 degrees for four hours in a single day.
These safety measures were enacted following a devastating heatwave the previous year, which claimed numerous lives and left hundreds injured in the construction and manufacturing sectors.
Related Reading:
- Brace Yourself for a 42°C Heat Wave in Southern Kazakhstan
- April 2025 Stood as One of the Hottest Months in Kazakhstan's History
[1] https://www.japan-forward.com/japan-new-rules-require-companies-to- protect-workers-from-extreme-heat/[2] https://www.japantimes.co.jp/news/2025/04/05/national/crackdown-on-heat- related-deaths-ahead-of-spring-work-season/[3] https://www.nippon.com/en/opinion/d600869/[4] https://www.japantimes.co.jp/news/2025/04/10/national/heatstroke-prevention-regulations-japan/[5] https://www.thejakartapost.com/international/2025/04/12/japan-cracks-down-on-work-safety-amid-extreme-heat.html
- In the face of the escalating issue of climate change, the environmental science community emphasizes the importance of science in addressing and mitigating the effects of global warming, particularly in the realm of health and wellness, such as reducing heat-related risks in the workplace.
- As Japan leads the way in implementing stringent workplace-wellness measures to protect workers during sweltering heat, it highlights a broader concern about environmental science and the impacts of climate change on work environments and employee health.
- Given the increasing occurrence of extreme heatwaves, as publicized in articles like "Brace Yourself for a 42°C Heat Wave in Southern Kazakhstan" and "April 2025 Stood as One of the Hottest Months in Kazakhstan's History," it is crucial that other nations look to Japan's efforts in improving workplace safety and consider similar measures in their respective industries.
