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Nippon Steel & Sumitomo Metal's Innovative Approach to Heat Stress Prevention

As temperatures soar during summer months, Nippon Steel & Sumitomo Metal's System Construction Division has taken a proactive approach to tackle the pressing issue of heat stress on construction sites. Starting from the summer of 2025, the company will implement a program named ‘Chiruchiru Happy Time’ aimed at promoting health and safety among on-site workers.

Chiruchiru Happy Time is not just a typical break; it encompasses a dedicated 10 to 15-minute pause for workers to actively hydrate and replenish salts, as well as to cool down. This initiative encourages employees to engage in conscious self-care, turning the break into a collective effort to prevent heat-related illnesses. Workers can find a range of supplies on-site, including salty snacks, electrolyte drinks, and cooling gadgets, creating an environment where they can relax and better manage their health.

Adaptive strategies are also in place for extreme weather, with flexible adjustments to the frequency and length of Chiruchiru Happy Time based on temperature and humidity levels. This proactive focus on employee safety reflects the company's commitment to ensuring a healthy working environment.

The Origin of ‘Chiruchiru Happy Time’

The name 'Chiruchiru' is derived from the Japanese word chilling, which conveys relaxation and calmness, while the English word ‘Chill’ signifies coldness. This name embodies the core philosophy behind the initiative, which aims to provide a moment of respite for workers to cool down both physically and mentally. The name was suggested by the younger generation within the company and highlights a modern, relatable take on health and safety measures.

In some construction settings, the company has even introduced shaved ice machines, offering a delicious way to cool off. This not only helps lower body temperatures but also contributes to overall morale by embracing relaxation during busy workdays.

Comprehensive Approach to Heat Stress

Nippon Steel & Sumitomo Metal has outlined a robust framework to combat heat stress, which includes:

1. Emergency Response Systems: Establishing clear guidelines for responding to suspected heat-related illnesses, including protocols displayed on posters.
2. Health Monitoring and Training: Regular health checks for construction workers are carried out, alongside emergency training for handling potential heat stress cases.
3. Work Hour Management: Guidelines dictate 45 minutes of work followed by a 15-minute hydration and recovery break, ensuring supplies like water and salts are readily available on-site.

A compact first-aid kit is provided at each site, further enhancing safety measures.

Emergency Training Initiative

In a groundbreaking effort, the company conducted heat stress emergency response training at its Tokyo headquarters and Chubu branch. This training featured industry experts who guided employees through both lectures and simulations, empowering them with the knowledge needed to react effectively during emergencies, thus fostering a culture of safety awareness.

The training included realistic scenarios to help employees understand the appropriate actions to take in critical situations.

Insights from Leadership

Daiwa Tani, head of the Safety and Quality Group at Nippon Steel & Sumitomo Metal, remarked on the importance of introducing Chiruchiru Happy Time for workers combating the heat. Previously, measures involved merely distributing drinks and candy, which he deemed insufficient for long-term effectiveness.

Recognizing the necessity for effective breaks, he emphasized the need for facilities that allow for body cooling and the replenishment of fluids and salts in a relaxed environment.

He hopes that Chiruchiru Happy Time becomes a brief oasis for laborers enduring extreme temperatures, contributing positively to their overall performance.

Although still in its infancy, feedback from various sites has been encouraging, indicating a promising future for the program. Post the heat stress prevention period this year, the company plans to conduct surveys among site supervisors and partner firms to further refine and enhance the Chiruchiru Happy Time initiative for the following year.

For more information related to this program, please contact:
Nippon Steel & Sumitomo Metal's System Construction Division
Sales Management Center
Email: [email protected]