Industrial Physician Requirement: Who Qualifies and What You Get
Learn if your company is required to hire an industrial physician to maintain workplace safety and health standards in Japan.
This requirement mandates that certain businesses appoint a medical professional to manage workplace health and safety.
Who it's for
This requirement is applicable to companies and business owners based in Japan that employ 50 or more people. If your workforce reaches this specific size, you are legally expected to have medical oversight integrated into your company operations.
What you get
The primary benefit of this requirement is that it ensures workplace safety and health standards are maintained within the company. By having a professional oversee these areas, the business works toward protecting the physical well-being of its staff and maintaining a regulated environment that meets national health expectations.
What it costs you
While the brief does not list a specific price in ¥, there are costs associated with the requirement. You will need to account for the time and financial resources required to secure a medical professional. This includes the ongoing expense of having a doctor available to manage the health and wellness of your employees as required by the Ministry of Health, Labour and Welfare.
The catch to know
The most significant challenge most businesses face is the difficulty of finding a doctor who understands the specific industry in which you operate. Because different sectors have different physical demands and health risks, a general medical background may not always be sufficient, making the recruitment of a specialized professional a difficult task.
How to apply
- Audit your current workforce to confirm if you have 50 or more employees.
- Search for a qualified medical professional who can serve as your industrial physician.
- Ensure the professional has the necessary expertise related to your specific industry.
- Coordinate with your HR department to integrate health checkups and wellness initiatives into your company's standard operations.