P-548 OCCUPATIONAL HEALTH SERVICES FOR SMALL-SCALE WORKPLACES PROVIDED BY AN OCCUPATIONAL HEALTH NURSE IN JAPAN

• Published in: Occupational medicine (Oxford) Vol. 74; no. Supplement_1
• Main Author: NAKAO, Yumi
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: English
• Published: 05.07.2024
• ISSN: 0962-7480; 1471-8405
• DOI: 10.1093/occmed/kqae023.1333

Abstract Introduction Small-scale workplaces with fewer than 50 employees (SSW) are not mandated but recommended to assign an occupational physician (OHP) by Occupational Health and Safety Law; however, most SSWs do not appoint an OHP. To support workplaces without OHP, the government establishes Regional Occupational Health Centers (ROHCs) in cooperation with regional medical associations which cover all regions within Japan. ROHC have assignments with occupational health nurses (OHNs) and provides minimal support for SSWs; however, the budgetary limitation of the government prevents repeated services to SSWs. Therefore, the author is promoting additional occupational health services to SSW as an independent OHN. Results and Discussion The author has conducted occupational health services to meet the specific needs of SSWs both as an appointed OHN at a ROHC and also as a consultant at private businesses for a decade. The provided services enabled employers and employees to become aware of their occupational health hazards and to encourage the reduction of risks. Regarding support for returning to work, the author facilitated cooperation with employees, medical doctors, managers and employers to promote adaptation of the work for the workers involved. These collaborations aided in building the reliance between medical providers and the company. Conclusion The occupational health services have become gradually more widespread; however, they are not yet sufficiently recognized by SSWs in Japan. It is important to keep the promotion of information and raise awareness to induce self-directed occupational health management among SSWs.