What new cooling technologies are being used on Japanese construction sites?

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New Cooling Technologies Deployed at Japanese Construction Sites

Japanese construction firms are introducing innovative cooling solutions to combat extreme summer heat and protect their workforce. Notably, prefabricated toilet units equipped with ventilation and mist cooling systems are being installed at various project sites, offering a respite from high temperatures. These initiatives are a direct response to increasing heat-related illnesses, with the government having mandated businesses to implement preventive measures since June of the previous year.
Prefabricated Toilets with Enhanced Cooling Features

Daito Trust Construction Co. has pioneered the installation of modular toilet units featuring advanced ventilation and mist cooling systems. These units are designed not only for temperature regulation but also to maintain a clean and comfortable environment, acknowledging the growing presence of female supervisors on site. The company is investing approximately 150 million yen (US$950,000) in the current fiscal year for heat-related illness prevention, including these solar-powered, antibacterial-coated toilet facilities.
Reductions in Working Hours and Innovative Garments

Beyond infrastructure enhancements, companies are also adjusting work schedules. Obayashi Corp., a major general contractor, has implemented reduced working hours from 7am to 1pm during July and August, prioritising worker safety over strict adherence to project timelines when temperatures are high. Concurrently, Imabari Shipbuilding Co. is developing specialised inner garments designed to cool workers as they sweat, representing a different approach to personal cooling technology.
Broader Efforts to Mitigate Heat Stress

The focus on mitigating heat-related illnesses extends to other sectors as well. Food delivery service Demae-can Co. began distributing drink tickets to its delivery personnel in July, ensuring they have access to necessary hydration. These varied strategies reflect a growing awareness of the severe impact of heat on workers, evidenced by the 1,803 individuals in 2025 who either died from heatstroke or missed significant work due to heat exhaustion, with the construction sector reporting 292 such cases.

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What new cooling technologies are being used on Japanese construction sites?

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