#Japan #Chiyoda #heatstroke prevention #Summer Safety #Kuribayashi Shipping

Introduction

As the scorching summer heats up, Kuribayashi Shipping Co., based in Chiyoda, Tokyo, is proactively addressing the growing heatstroke risks that its crew faces. With temperatures on the rise, the company has taken significant steps to enhance safety and welfare for their maritime workers.

Continuous Implementation of Measures

This year marks the fourth consecutive year that Kuribayashi is distributing fan-assisted work uniforms to its crew. These uniforms are designed to combat the extreme temperatures often experienced on board as well as in port areas. In an additional effort, starting June 1, 2026, until the end of October, the company began distributing one liter of beverages per crew member daily across its four operational vessels.

Why Heatstroke Prevention is Critical

The importance of heatstroke prevention in the workplace cannot be overstated, particularly given that extreme heat has become a regular occurrence. In June 2025, new regulations and guidelines were established to strengthen these preventive measures. Companies are being increasingly called upon to implement robust safety management practices.

Recognizing the severity of this issue, Kuribayashi Shipping began offering fan-assisted uniforms three years ago, prior to the new legal measures, to ensure that crew members could work safely in high-temperature environments.

New Beverage Distribution Initiative

For the 2026 summer season, Kuribayashi Shipping has initiated a beverage distribution program for all crew members aboard its vessels. This effort is crucial in managing the risks associated with extreme heat, ensuring that every crew member receives adequate hydration during their duties.

The continuous provision of these uniforms, paired with daily beverage distribution, represents a comprehensive approach to mitigate the effects of heat on the crew's health and operational safety.

Commitment to Safety and Health

Building a safe working environment for their crew is a top priority for Kuribayashi Shipping. Between June 1 and the end of October, they aim to provide the equipment and resources necessary for the crew to work without the added burden of extreme heat. The initiatives in place not only support health management but also maintain safe operational standards.

Kuribayashi's management asserts that the health and safety of crew members are fundamental to providing safe and stable transport services to customers. The company's executive management emphasizes the significance of this responsibility in light of the ongoing heatwave challenges.

Perspectives from Leadership

Hiroyuki Kuribayashi, Executive Director: "Protecting our crew’s health and safety is fundamental for delivering reliable transport services. Due to the escalating temperatures, the need for effective heatstroke prevention measures has become increasingly vital. We are dedicated to maintaining our investment in creating a work environment that supports our crew members, ensuring their safety and well-being."

Masaki Shinji, Safety Management Office: "We are acutely aware of how the extreme temperatures affect our crew’s physical burden. Heatstroke poses a risk not only to individual health but also to the safety of operations. Our commitment to providing fan-assisted uniforms along with beverage distribution is a step toward alleviating those burdens. Listening to the crew’s feedback remains essential as we refine and improve our heatstroke prevention strategies."

Conclusion

Through dedicated efforts and strategic initiatives, Kuribayashi Shipping is enhancing its safety measures this summer to protect the health and wellness of its crew. By retaining the fan-assisted uniforms and rolling out beverage distribution, the company aims to ensure that their team can safely navigate the challenges of the season ahead, all while upholding the high standards of safety that are a hallmark of their operations.