Daikin, a leading Japanese air conditioning company, has started to conduct PFAS (Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances) tests on its employees. This action comes amid growing concerns over the potential adverse health effects of PFAS, a group of man-made chemicals that have been used in various industries around the globe. These chemicals are persistent in the environment and in the human body, leading to potential harmful health effects. The specific reasons and timeline for Daikin's decision have not yet been disclosed in detail.

In Japan, corporate responsibility and employee welfare are deeply valued. With the widescale use of PFAS in multiple industries including manufacturing, concerns for public and worker health due to possible exposure are prevalent. Companies in Japan are expected to ensure the wellbeing of their employees, and by conducting these tests, Daikin fits into this societal expectation.

In the US and EU, PFAS and their potential health implications are also a critical issue, with numerous studies and public health initiatives undertaken to understand and mitigate their effects. These tests are similarly performed in companies potentially dealing with these substances, and the regulations vary per region and degree of exposure.