TOKYO — Police, health authorities and businesses in Japan are on high alert for summer heat this year after two straight years of record temperatures, with severe health consequences for the elderly.
Starting this month, businesses are required to familiarize employees working in hot environments about heatstroke risks, appoint a contact person to whom workers can report when they have symptoms, and have procedures in place for dealing with cases of hyperthermia. Failure to comply carries criminal penalties, including fines or imprisonment.
