This paper presents the results of an effectiveness assessment conducted for the Occupational Health Law Training (MHLW Grants and the Japan Association of Occupational Health Law), which aims to enhance the problem-solving abilities (prevention and post-incident resolution) of occupational health professionals. The results of the effectiveness assessment survey yielded the following three conclusions. Conclusion 1: The effectiveness of the training in improving problem-solving skills was significantly observed among the trainees (participants in this study) of the Occupational Health Law Training. Conclusion 2: The trainees’ (participants in this study) satisfaction with the training was generally high. Conclusion 3: The effects of the training were generally maintained even after some time had passed since the completion of the training, and it was suggested that the trainees (study participants) might have deepened their learning through their respective work.

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The issues surrounding dependents under the Health Insurance Act are undergoing significant changes. After the end of the COVID-19 pandemic, medical expenses for dependents who had been refraining from seeking medical care continue to increase. Meanwhile, the government is implementing and planning various measures to expand social insurance coverage and reduce the number of dependents. In December 2022, the Supreme Court placed certain limitations on insurers’ discretion in recognizing dependents. This paper comprehensively reviews various literature to clarify recent issues concerning dependents and indicates a certain direction.

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In recent years, there have been cases where it is difficult to address solely with existing fields due to the diversification of workers' illnesses and problems, as well as cases where complex factors from community and family life outside the workplace are behind mental health issues. By fostering collaboration and exchange between occupational health law and community mental health, local governments can appropriately coordinate with employers and occupational health staff. This is expected to increase flexible options for problem-solving, facilitate smooth employment, prevent the worsening of symptoms and situations, and prevent workplace conflicts.

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This paper introduces the results of a multidisciplinary discussion on how to accommodate LGBTQ employees in the workplace environment. The discussion was based on a case where X, a transgender individual (M to F), filed a lawsuit seeking the reversal of a decision that denied their request for corrective measures regarding restrictions on the use of some women's toilets in the workplace, as well as a claim for state compensation (Supreme Court decision, July 11, 2023)

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Plaintiff X, who had a fixed-term employment contract with defendant company Y1, began working under an additional labor contract with company A and subsequently developed a mental illness. Y1 notified X of the termination of their labor contract. In response, X filed a lawsuit seeking confirmation of the invalidity of the dismissal by Y1, as well as claiming damages on the grounds that the company’s failure to properly address the power harassment they experienced constituted a tort. The court dismissed all of X’s claims (X was certified as having suffered an occupational injury on November 30, 2015). This analysis is based on the Osaka District Court’s written judgment (as published in “Rodo Hanrei” No. 1257).

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This review examines the effectiveness of tools for assessing the mental health of people affected by humanitarian crises（ hereafter referred to as disasters） such as natural disasters and conflicts. Disasters have a significant impact on mental health, commonly causing conditions such as PTSD, depression, and substance use disorders. However, many of the mental health assessment tools used to evaluate these effects are not standardized, making accurate assessment difficult.

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From April 2024, employers are obligated to conduct health examinations based on risk assessment results for risk assessment target substances. This is required when workers are exposed to concentrations exceeding the standards set by the Minister of Health, Labour and Welfare after considering workers' opinions and determining the necessity. Employers must then take necessary measures based on the examination results. This paper explains the basic concepts and important considerations for health examinations of risk assessment target substances.

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