Japan’s Ministry of Health, Labour and Welfare (MHLW) has released an updated list of chemical substances under the Industrial Safety and Health Act (ISHA), adding 167 newly announced substances to its official workplace safety database. The update was published in December 2025 as part of Japan’s ongoing chemical safety and occupational health initiatives.
The revised list enhances transparency and supports consistent chemical risk management across Japanese workplaces.
Purpose of the ISHA Chemical Substance List
Under ISHA, Japan maintains a public inventory of chemical substances that may pose occupational health or safety risks. The list serves as a key reference for employers, manufacturers, and importers to identify substances that require appropriate hazard communication and risk control measures.
Regular updates ensure that chemical safety information reflects current scientific and regulatory developments.
Highlights of the December 2025 Update
Addition of 167 Newly Announced Substances
The latest update introduces 167 chemical substances that are now officially announced and searchable through the MHLW’s workplace safety information portal. These substances are subject to existing ISHA requirements related to chemical hazard management.
Improved Transparency and Information Access
By publishing the updated list, MHLW aims to improve access to chemical hazard data and support employers in conducting workplace risk assessments. While the update does not introduce new notification obligations, it reinforces the importance of ongoing compliance with safety rules.
Compliance Obligations for Businesses
Companies that manufacture, import, supply, or use listed substances in Japan must continue to comply with ISHA requirements, including:
- Preparation and provision of Safety Data Sheets (SDS)
- Proper hazard labeling in the workplace
- Implementation of risk control measures and employee training
These obligations help ensure that workers are informed about chemical hazards and protected from potential exposure.
Role of the MHLW Chemical Information Database
The MHLW database functions as a central platform for:
- Identifying chemicals subject to ISHA controls
- Accessing safety and hazard classification information
- Supporting compliance planning and workplace safety management
The December update further strengthens the database as a reliable regulatory reference tool.
What Companies Should Do Next
Businesses operating in Japan or supplying chemicals to the Japanese market should:
- Review the newly added substances to assess potential impacts
- Update SDS, labeling, and internal safety documentation if necessary
- Monitor future ISHA updates for additional regulatory changes
Early review and proactive compliance planning can help reduce operational and regulatory risks.
The December 2025 update to Japan’s ISHA chemical substance list highlights the government’s continued focus on workplace chemical safety. By adding 167 new substances to the public database, MHLW reinforces hazard communication and supports safer handling of chemicals across industries.
Source: Japan Updates ISHA Chemical List
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