Body odour and “excessive sighing” could soon be protected under Japanese workplace harassment laws.
Recent discussions among Japanese legal experts and government officials suggest these behaviors could be classified as forms of harassment in the workplace.
Traditionally, “power harassment” in Japan encompasses verbal abuse, physical intimidation, and unreasonable demands.
However, according to a South China Morning Post report, the scope is now broadening to include actions that can create an uncomfortable working environment, even if they are not overtly aggressive.
Tomomi Fukumoto, a Tokyo-based employment lawyer, explains, “In Japan, the concept of workplace harassment is expanding.
“Behaviors that might not be traditionally seen as harassment, such as body odour or loud sighing, can contribute to a hostile work environment.”
This shift reflects a growing sensitivity to the workplace atmosphere and how seemingly minor actions can impact employee well-being and productivity.
Legal professionals advise companies to consider these factors in their anti-harassment policies.
This is to promote a more respectful and considerate workplace culture.
One recent case involved a company employee who felt targeted by colleagues making frequent comments about his body odour.
Although the comments were not explicitly aggressive, they created significant stress for the individual.
“It’s not just about the words or actions themselves, but the cumulative effect they have on the person’s ability to work comfortably,” said Fukumoto.
Another example is excessive sighing, which can be perceived as a sign of discontent or frustration.
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When directed towards a specific colleague, it can create a sense of pressure or unease.
“Excessive sighing might seem trivial, but if it’s constant and directed at someone, it can make them feel they are not valued or are a source of annoyance,” added Fukumoto.
The Japanese Ministry of Health, Labour, and Welfare is reportedly considering updating its guidelines on workplace harassment to reflect these broader definitions.
Companies are encouraged to educate employees about the wide range of behaviors that can constitute harassment and to foster an environment where everyone feels respected and valued.
This move towards a more inclusive understanding of harassment aligns with global trends, where workplace well-being is increasingly seen as encompassing not just physical safety, but also mental and emotional health.
