Labor Issues- View allLast updated: 2026-03-13

Telework Labor Management in Japan: Working Hours and Safety Obligations

Key Takeaways

  • Employers must track working hours even for remote employees
  • Deemed working hour systems have strict application requirements
  • Rules for communication and utility cost sharing should be in work regulations
  • Duty of care extends to mental health of remote workers

Labor laws apply fully to telework. Employers must track working hours (Occupational Safety Act Art. 66-8-3). The "deemed working hours" system (LSA Art. 38-2) has strict requirements rarely met in practice. Cost-sharing for internet/utilities must be specified in work rules (LSA Art. 89). The duty of care (Labor Contract Act Art. 5) extends to teleworkers, including mental health measures.

This article provides general legal information and does not constitute legal advice. For specific legal issues, please consult with a qualified attorney.

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