As the height of summer approaches, measures to prevent heatstroke at work become crucial. The Labor Ministry has disclosed the data of workplace accidents relating to heatstroke in fiscal 2025. This article looks at the report and the guidelines to prevent heatstroke at work.
[1] Workplace accidents relating to heatstroke in 2025
The ministry report shows 1,803 people were affected by heatstroke at work (cases that led to death or leave of absence of at least four days). The figure increased by 546 from a year ago and was the highest since the statistics became available. The chart below shows the trend of the past 10 years. Meanwhile the number of fatal cases fell by 12 to 19.
Chart: Trend of the number of workers’ heatstroke
[2] Guidelines for preventing heatstroke at work
The latest government guidelines drawn up in March cites four important points as below.
1. Prepare a necessary structure and equipment to prevent heatstroke
2. Understand the risks of heatstroke correctly
3. Consider appropriate measures against the risks
4. Provide necessary education and training
Regarding 1, companies are required to establish a reporting structure in the case workers become sick and prevent the condition from worsening, and ensure that employees are informed of the structure, in line with the revised Ordinance on Industrial Safety and Health, implemented in July 2025.
The Health and Labor Ministry’s website provides helpful materials, including “Heatstroke prevention guidelines for workers.” Please make use of the materials and promote effort to prevent workers’ heatstroke.
Reference
The Ministry of Health, Labour and Welfare, “Status of worker casualties relating to heatstroke (final data)”
