PCPhase Releases “KURO-Q,” a Heatstroke Prevention System Using WBGT

PCPhase Inc. (Head Office: Shibuya-ku, Tokyo; Representative: Kazuhiro Yoshida; hereinafter “PCPhase”) has released “KURO-Q,” a heatstroke prevention system that uses WBGT. KURO-Q analyzes WBGT (Wet Bulb Globe Temperature / heat stress index) data collected by dedicated sensors in the cloud, and supports rapid and appropriate heatstroke prevention measures at worksites by sending alerts and presenting action guidelines according to risk level. The service is currently patent pending (P2026-077673). Overview of KURO-Q: WBGT is an index designed to prevent heatstroke. It is calculated based on three factors that affect the human body’s heat balance: humidity, the surrounding thermal environment such as solar radiation and radiant heat, and air temperature. KURO-Q measures WBGT with high precision using dedicated sensors, analyzes the data in the cloud, and issues real-time alerts. Its management screen enables centralized monitoring of multiple locations and alert histories, while visualizing WBGT, humidity, and temperature data on a dashboard. The name “KURO-Q” comes from the black spherical shape of the sensor, combining “kuro” meaning black and “Q” meaning sphere. It also incorporates the meaning of “nine Qs,” including “kyu” for rest and rescue through heatstroke prevention. The system can be used in a wide range of settings, including health management during outdoor activities at schools and municipalities, safety measures at sports and leisure facilities, and prevention of occupational accidents during manufacturing and construction work. Three key features: Feature 1: Heatstroke measures that “leave records” — evidence management supporting administrative response and accountability. In addition to WBGT measurement and alerting, KURO-Q can centrally manage alert histories and response records. Against the backdrop of the revised Industrial Safety and Health Regulations taking effect in June 2025, it supports the creation of a framework that not only implements measures but also objectively proves that they were carried out appropriately. Feature 2: Support from decision-making to execution — alerts that lead to action. When an alert is issued, an email notification is sent at the same time. Going forward, PCPhase plans to expand notification channels beyond email to include LINE and chat systems, enabling fast and reliable information delivery to worksites and stakeholders. Feature 3: Compliant with JIS standard Class 1.5 — a reliable WBGT measurement standard. The adopted WBGT sensor complies with JIS Class 1.5, ensuring high measurement accuracy and reliability. It is easy to introduce even in highly public settings, and the acquired data can be used as evidence for on-site decisions and reporting. Early introduction at Shidax Daishinto Human Service Inc.: At after-school childcare facilities operated by Shidax Daishinto Human Service Inc. (https://human-se.co.jp/), KURO-Q is scheduled for early introduction to strengthen children’s safety management and improve operational systems in response to increasing health risks during outdoor activities. Around 100 facilities are planned for May 2026. Clear judgment criteria based on WBGT will allow staff to immediately determine alert levels and timing for breaks, aiming to eliminate regional differences and variations in responses among personnel. In addition, accumulated alert histories and response records are expected to improve accountability to parents and related organizations. How it is used: Sensors are installed at activity sites used by children in after-school childcare facilities to monitor WBGT in real time. After an alert is issued, instructors are notified and decide whether to take breaks or stop activities depending on the situation. Comment from the person in charge: “To ensure that children can spend hot summers safely, we have worked to prevent heatstroke by thoroughly enforcing internal manuals based on weather information. With the introduction of this system, we feel reassured because we can make more accurate situational judgments. Extreme heat is expected again this summer, so we intend to make good use of it.” Future development: KURO-Q is planned for further expansion in the education and childcare fields, where early introduction has begun. Shidax Daishinto Human Service ultimately aims to introduce the system at approximately 3,000 facilities nationwide, and it is expected to contribute to the advancement and standardization of heatstroke prevention measures across communities. PCPhase will also continue expanding KURO-Q’s functionality. In addition to further diversifying notification methods, the company will work to enhance indicators that more specifically support on-site decision-making, such as recommended break times and criteria for contacting medical institutions. The goal is to build a highly effective safety management platform that goes beyond simple notifications. Through KURO-Q, PCPhase will continue contributing to the creation of environments that support the safety and peace of mind of children and people working at worksites. For details and inquiries, please visit the service website: https://kuro-q.com. Company overview: Company name: PCPhase Inc.; Head office: 4-19-8 Jingumae, Shibuya-ku, Tokyo; Representative Director: Kazuhiro Yoshida; Businesses: digital marketing, app development, video platform business; Established: October 1998; Website: https://www.pcp.co.jp/