Cyprus’ Department of Labour Inspection has issued a heat stress warning, saying that high temperatures and humidity expected on Tuesday and in the coming days could create very serious heatwave conditions requiring work to be regulated, restricted or even suspended.
The department said the conditions could endanger employees working in environments exposed to heat stress and seriously affect their health.
Employers urged to monitor conditions
In guidance issued to employers and self-employed workers, the Department reminded them that they must measure the environmental factors contributing to heat stress at workplaces.
Based on air temperature (measured in the shade) and relative humidity, employers should adjust work schedules, introduce rest breaks, rotate tasks or suspend work where necessary, depending on the type and intensity of the work being carried out.
The Department also called for appropriate organisational and technical measures to reduce heat exposure in cooperation with workplace safety representatives.
Recommended protective measures
Employers are advised to:
- Schedule heavy work during the coolest hours of the day.
- Provide frequent short breaks in shaded, cool or air-conditioned areas where possible.
- Use shelters or shaded workspaces whenever feasible.
- Rotate workers performing physically demanding tasks.
- Avoid strenuous outdoor work between 12:00 pm and 4:00 pm where possible.
- Ensure access to cool drinking water (10–15°C).
- Provide suitable head coverings, lightweight breathable clothing and sunglasses.
- Encourage workers to avoid heavy meals, sugary foods, alcohol and caffeinated drinks during working hours.
- Provide training on recognising and preventing heat stress.
Work stoppages under specific conditions
The Department noted that, under the Code of Practice, work must be suspended when temperatures between 39°C and 46°C are combined with relative humidity above specified thresholds, depending on whether work is classified as light, moderate or heavy.
The Labour Department urged employers to comply with the Code of Practice to safeguard workers’ health during periods of extreme heat.
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