Japan workplace trends: Employee wellness and safety updates

Various Japanese organizations and companies are implementing new measures to address workplace safety, employee health, and regulatory efficiency.

Tsumura Co., Ltd. reported significant progress in its ‘#OneMoreChoice Action’ project. Since renaming its menstrual leave policy to ‘Female Care’ in 2022, the total number of days taken has increased approximately 3.6 times compared to 2021. The company also reported high rates of gynecological screenings, exceeding national targets.

In the hospitality sector, the Japan Hotel Association is calling for the removal of local government ‘add-on regulations’ that mandate physical front desk presence. The association seeks to allow for unmanned reception through digital technology to address labor shortages.

Regarding occupational safety, discussions continue on mental health investment and the use of technology. Recent reports highlight the use of web cameras for remote site inspections in construction to prevent accidents, while also noting specific incidents of carbon monoxide poisoning caused by unauthorized equipment use in enclosed scaffolding.