Needs of Occupational health in large earthquake : interview surveys with Occupational Physician

Introduction
The 2011 Tohoku earthquake, subsequent tsunami and radioactive contamination caused a devastating damage to that area. Companies that have offices in this area had direct human suffering, destruction of plants and shredding of Lifeline (Direct area). Not only in the Direct area but also Indirect areas were influenced such as performing support activities and affecting the production process because of having difficulty in component supplies and rolling blackouts. This study is to clarify needs of occupational health care that occur in such case of large earthquakes. In addition, we discuss the requirements of occupational physicians (OP) for a crisis.

Methods
We planned interviews to OPs of companies, in each major industry sector, that have business locations throughout Japan.

Results
Interview of two companies have been completed at this time ended. According to them, we expect the occupational health needs are those related to the nuclear accident and otherwise. The former is prevention of occupational illness and exposure to radiation in/around the nuclear power plant and advice about the anxiety of the radiation. The latter is safety confirmation, the labor productivity adjusted and impact on the health risks involved during recovery efforts. Although the emergency response plans are inadequate, certain occupational health organizations are functioned in companies where the role of occupational health were highly recognized and trusted.

Discussion
On addition of further investigation, we will discuss below.
1) What kind of occupational health needs are expected at the time of any industrial disaster and how the support should be.
2) How to incorporate the role of occupational health into the earthquake emergency response plans (business continuity plan, BCP).