The Novel Approach to Chemical Hazard Control at Work in Japan

Abstract

In April 2024, the Ministry of Health, Labour and Welfare of Japan introduced a novel approach to chemical hazard control at work that emphasizes employer autonomy. This study aims to describe the details of the new regulations and share lessons learned from the revision and issues to be resolved in the future. As the new regulatory framework for chemical hazard control is wide-ranging, this study focuses on providing hazard information, implementing risk assessments, introducing concentration criteria to prevent exposure to hazardous substances, and regulating hazardous substances with percutaneous absorption. This study explains the historical background of each regulation in contrast with the regulations of the European Union and the USA, followed by the details of current problems and the purpose of the amendment to resolve them. A discussion is provided to evaluate the key issues and challenges associated with the new regulations. This study outlines the following issues: (1) Using hazard criteria to designate substances subject to regulation in contrast to the traditional listing-up names of substances. (2) Introducing concentration criteria as exposure limits instead of the concentration level of the working environment, which is unique in Japan. (3) Developing measures to prevent health effects through dermal absorption of hazardous materials. The Conclusion section identifies the issues to be resolved, such as (4) the necessity of reinforcing hazard information through safety data sheets, as well as preserving confidential business interests, and (5) a system to ensure the quality of personal exposure monitoring.