Health checkups in companies are not only a legal obligation under labor law, but also a vital strategy for protecting employee health and improving productivity. However, many businesses are unsure of when, what, for whom, and how to conduct them properly.
This article explains the basics of workplace health checkups and outlines the procedures in compliance with the Industrial Safety and Health Act. We also introduce the services provided by Astella Occupational Health Office, based in Shinjuku, Tokyo.
What Is a Workplace Health Checkup? Legal Positioning
Under Article 66 of the Industrial Safety and Health Act, employers are obligated to conduct regular health checkups for employees. This helps prevent work-related illnesses and overwork-related deaths, while ensuring proper employment management.
Types of Required Health Checkups
- Pre-employment health checkup (when hiring new employees)
- Periodic health checkup (once a year or more for regular employees)
- Night-shift worker checkup (every six months)
- Special task worker checkup (every six months)
- Overseas assignment checkup (before and after dispatch)
All of these are stipulated by law. Failure to implement them may result in administrative guidance or corrective recommendations from the Labor Standards Inspection Office.
Related: Types and Overview of Health Checkups
Standard Procedure for Conducting Health Checkups
1. Identify Target Employees and Provide Notification
Prepare a list of eligible employees based on age and employment status. Even part-time or non-regular employees may be subject to mandatory checkups under certain conditions.
2. Conduct the Health Checkup
Partner with a medical institution or checkup provider to carry out either in-office or off-site checkups. Costs are typically borne by the employer.
3. Confirm and Manage the Results
Employers must retain health checkup results for five years. If any abnormal findings are reported, consultation with an occupational physician is required.
4. Occupational Physician Consultation
Employees with significant findings may require work restrictions or schedule adjustments. The occupational physician provides a medical opinion, and the company should determine appropriate measures based on that opinion.
Reference: Examples of Return-to-Work Support
5. Follow-Up Support
For high-risk individuals, follow-up support such as lifestyle advice, recommending medical visits, or reexamination is important to prevent illness progression.
Coordination with Stress Checks
While health checkups assess physical risks, mental health conditions can be detected and prevented through stress checks. A dual approach addressing both physical and mental health helps strengthen your workplace’s occupational health system.
Key Considerations for HR and Compliance Staff
- Spread out checkup scheduling throughout the year to reduce workload
- Ensure privacy and proper handling of personal medical information
- Follow up with employees who missed their checkup
- Maintain accurate records for labor authority inspections
In addition to statutory checkups, many companies now offer optional services such as subsidies for comprehensive physical exams (e.g., full medical checkups) and specific health guidance.
Related: Mental Health Measures and Employee Education
Astella Occupational Health Office Services (Shinjuku & Tokyo)
Astella Occupational Health Office provides end-to-end support in the Shinjuku and Tokyo area—from post-checkup physician consultations to interview support and follow-up system design. We are known for helping companies turn health data into strategic business assets.
Visit our official website to download a free health checkup planning checklist and learn more about our services.
Conclusion: From Obligation to Strategy
Health checkups are more than just legal obligations—they are an investment in workforce health and corporate sustainability. Work with occupational physicians to build a comprehensive, law-compliant health management system.
If you’re looking for a reliable occupational health partner in Tokyo or Shinjuku, feel free to contact Astella Occupational Health Office for support.
