Newsroom
Employers across Cyprus have been warned that exceptionally high temperatures on Tuesday and in the coming days could require outdoor work to be limited or temporarily suspended to protect workers from heat-related illness.
The Labour Inspection Department said the combination of extreme heat and humidity could create dangerous conditions for people working in environments exposed to high temperatures, making adjustments to working practices essential.
The department reminded employers and self-employed workers that they are responsible for monitoring the conditions at their workplaces by measuring the factors that contribute to heat stress. Decisions on whether work should continue, be modified or stop altogether should be based on air temperature recorded in the shade, relative humidity and the type of work being carried out.
Depending on the conditions, employers should introduce measures such as altering work schedules, rotating staff, increasing rest breaks and, where necessary, suspending work. These steps should be taken in consultation with workplace safety representatives and supported by appropriate organisational and technical measures.
Among the recommendations are carrying out physically demanding tasks during the coolest parts of the day, providing frequent breaks in shaded or air-conditioned areas, and avoiding strenuous outdoor work between noon and 4pm whenever possible. Employers are also encouraged to provide shaded workspaces or temporary shelters where practical.
Workers should have continuous access to cool drinking water kept between 10C and 15C, wear suitable head protection, lightweight breathable clothing and appropriate sunglasses. The department also advises avoiding heavy meals, sugary foods, alcohol and caffeinated drinks during periods of extreme heat, while ensuring staff receive training on heat stress prevention.
Under Cyprus' Code of Practice on heat stress, work must be suspended once specific combinations of temperature and humidity are reached. The thresholds vary according to whether the work is classified as light, moderate or heavy.
For example, at an air temperature of 39C, work must stop when humidity reaches at least 53 per cent for light work, 48 per cent for moderate work and 42 per cent for heavy work. At 46C, the corresponding limits fall to 23 per cent, 19 per cent and 15 per cent.
The department encouraged employers and workers to consult its guidance on heat stress and contact district labour inspectors for further advice if needed.
