What companies must NOT do
Keeping a passport is banned
In the past, in order to prevent foreign workers from escaping, host companies sometimes took away passports and residence cards from them.
The possession of a residence card by a company which employs a foreigner constitutes a restriction of freedom of movement on the foreigner, so it is illegal. Even if a foreigner asks a company to keep their residence card, the company must not keep it.
Besides the above, companies must not do the following to their workers. For example:
- Keep an employee’s bankbook
- Fining workers for leaving their seats to use the restroom during working hours.
- Verbal abuse.
- Physical abuse.
- Sexual harassment.
If your company or others are violating these rules, please contact the following organizations:
Organization for Technical Intern Training (OTIT)
Labor Standards Bureaus in Japan (only in Japanese)｜Ministry of Health, Labour and Welfare
Points to be Careful of on Residence Card
Residence card is an identification card for non-Japanese persons living in Japan. Foreign nationals living in Japan are required to carry their residence card with them at all times. Also, do not lend or borrow a residence card to/from other people. There are serious penalties for violating the law regarding residence card. In this article, we will introduce some points to note about residence cards.
Working environment
Companies in Japan must provide a safe and clean working environment.
(1) Management of working environment
Companies must monitor the following areas of the working environment and improve them if necessary.
- Quality of Air: Whether dust or other harmful substances are contained in the air.
- Temperature and humidity: Whether it is not too cold or too hot in the workplace. Whether measures are taken to relieve the cold or heat when workers work outside.
- Lighting: Whether it is too dark or too light.
- Noise: Whether there is too much noise.
- Office Space: Whether the office has enough space. Whether the aisle is cleared.
(2) Work management
Companies must instruct workers to work in a way that protects their health and safety. Specifically, companies should draw up and check manuals on the appropriate details, time and method of work.
(3) Health care
Companies must check the health of workers.
- Health checkups should be conducted at least once a year
- Set up a health-related consultation desk
- Set up a resting room and keep it clean
If these are not followed, contact any of the organizations mentioned above.
If you want to know more, check here!
How to Work with Foreign nationals｜JICA-Net Library
Beware of Contracts with Penalty Clauses!
Before you start working for a company, you’ll be given an explanation on salary, working hours, and other matters, and if you agree, you’ll sign a contract. Once the contract is signed, both the company and the worker will keep copies of the contract. Contracts are very important, so be careful not to lose them.
