Guideline for the Prevention of Heat Disorder in Japan

In a hot and humid environment the risk of heat disorders is increased in general, and in particular in conditions of high rates of metabolic heat generation as during labor or endurance sports. Heat disorders include heat collapse, heat cramps, heat exhaustion, and heat stroke. Appropriate water replenishment, reduced physical activity and relief from heat exposure can prevent heat disorders. Once heat disorders have developed, applying first aid measures immediately is required to prevent serious aftereffects or a fatal outcome. To prevent heat disorders during sports activities, the Japan Amateur Sports Association (JASA) has announced a “Guideline for the Prevention of Heat disorder” with “Eight Key Tips for the Prevention of Heat disorders” in 1993. In Japan they are widely used in various fields of daily activities. Heat disorders may occur, however, also in the absence of intense physical activity, with heat exposed infants and the aged being at particularly high risk. The Japanese Society of Biometeorology (JSB) has launched a study group for the “Prevention of Heat disorder” in 2006, outlining guideline criteria in order to compile a new prevention guideline. This paper mainly provides background information of relevance for the two prevention guidelines and about organizations engaged in Japan in the implementation of guidelines for heat disorder prevention.