A questionnaire survey on Japanese workers’ views of the work-treatment balance system

Abstract

Objective: To examine Japanese workers’ acceptance and perceptions of the work-treatment balance system proposed by the Japanese Government. Methods: A questionnaire survey was conducted among 120,000 Japanese workers. Participants were asked about their acceptance of the work-treatment balance system and their attitudes toward disclosing health problems and seeking support in the workplace. Results: Only 7% and 27% of participants accepted the work-treatment balance system and a consultation desk for employees having difficulties at the workplace, respectively. The proportion of those who preferred not to disclose a health problem in the workplace (31%) exceeded those who preferred to do so (15%). Multiple logistic regression analysis indicated that acceptance of the work-treatment balance system and a consultation desk at the workplace was significantly associated with attitudes toward disclosing health problems. Those who worked in smaller workplaces (less than 300 employees) and were employed in sales/customer service, manufacturing, and driving/delivery were significantly less likely to indicate a willingness to disclose a health problem in the workplace. Conclusion: Most workers have little understanding of the work-treatment balance system. Further knowledge of the work-treatment balance system must be promoted by both the Government and companies.