#Japan #healthcare #Bridge #Kochi #Heatwave

Bridge Company Implements Cooling Vests for Staff

As the relentless heat continues through September, Bridge Co., headquartered in Kochi, Japan, is taking action to ensure the safety of its staff. The company's en Home Care Group has been proactive in addressing heat-related issues and has already implemented a "Heat Prevention Support" program, which will cover all staff starting in 2026. To further enhance this initiative, the company has introduced cooling vests specifically for staff who visit clients via bicycle or motorcycle.

New Initiatives for Employee Safety

With temperatures remaining uncomfortably high, outdoor workers are particularly at risk for heat-related illnesses. Francesca Smith, a visiting nurse with en Group, expressed her relief, stating:
"I no longer sweat even during long rides. Waiting at traffic lights used to be agonizing, but now it’s bearable."

These cooling vests are equipped with fans that circulate air within the garment, significantly reducing the perceived temperature and minimizing the risk of heat-related health issues during long periods of outdoor activity.

Additionally, in light of increasing natural disasters such as climate change and the potential for earthquakes, Bridge has further strengthened its business continuity plan (BCP). Recently, a safety confirmation system was implemented to ensure the well-being of all staff during emergencies. This system allows the company to quickly assess the safety of its workers in the event of a disaster.

BCP and Safety Confirmation System

The en Home Care Group recognizes their critical role in supporting at-home care for clients. With natural disasters becoming more frequent and severe, it's essential for the company to maintain its operations in these situations. Implementing a robust BCP, including a safety check system, is crucial for ensuring that staff can continue their essential work to support clients, even during disasters.

Regular training sessions have been set up to prepare staff for real-life emergencies, instructing them on how to respond calmly and effectively. During the Kumamoto Earthquake on July 28, 2026, the newly introduced safety confirmation system proved its effectiveness in quickly determining the safety status of staff working in affected areas, leading to less chaos during the crisis.

A Commitment to Staff and Clients

President Masayoshi Toritani stated, "We believe that investing in our staff directly correlates to improving the quality of service we provide to our clients." The company continuously strives to enhance working conditions through various initiatives, focusing on heat relief and disaster preparedness is essential. Creating a safe and reliable environment for the personnel ultimately protects clients who are receiving care at home.

About the `en` Group

The en Group, with the mission of pursuing a life one can be proud to live, aims to create a society where life in rural areas is as enriching as urban life. Operating in 20 locations across 14 prefectures nationwide, the group primarily focuses on home care services, including visiting nursing. They also offer a range of services, including:

• - Daycare services
• - Care management agencies
• - Travel support services (accompanied by health and care professionals)

With a commitment to challenge norms in the home care sector, the en Group aims to be a leader in innovative value delivery across healthcare and caregiving fields.

For inquiries regarding this announcement:
Bridge Co.
Contact: Arisa Yamanaka, Corporate Planning Department
Phone: 080-4388-5475
Email: [email protected]
Website: en-houkan.com