High lveles of dust are affecting the atmosphere over Cyprus on Monday morning, according to data from ground monitoring stations operated by the Department of Labour Inspection’s Air Quality Monitoring Network.
Health warnings issued for vulnerable groups
Authorities warned that dust contains fine inhalable particles that may negatively affect human health. As a result, the general public – and especially vulnerable groups such as children, the elderly and people with chronic illnesses – are advised to avoid outdoor activities until the phenomenon subsides.
Employers urged to take protective measures
Employers are also reminded that, under existing regulations, they must assess risks to employees working outdoors and take appropriate organisational or technical measures. Workers exposed to outdoor conditions are advised to use suitable personal protective equipment.
Highest dust concentrations recorded in rural areas
According to the latest hourly measurements taken at 07:00 on Monday, the following PM10 dust concentrations were recorded:
- Nicosia: 38.5 μg/m³
- Limassol: 102.0 μg/m³
- Larnaca: 85.5 μg/m³
- Paralimni: 76.2 μg/m³
- Paphos: 110.3 μg/m³
- Zygi: 82.1 μg/m³
- Agia Marina Xyliatou: 124.3 μg/m³
Agia Marina Xyliatou recorded the highest dust concentration, more than double the legal daily limit.
Legal limits and definition of dust
Dust refers to suspended inhalable particles in the atmosphere with a diameter of less than 10 micrometres (PM10). Under current legislation, the limit value applies to the average daily concentration and must not exceed 50 μg/m³.
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