No outdoor work in direct sun from noon to 5.00 pm, labour ministry says

With temperatures set to soar to 43 C in the interior, the labour inspection unit on Friday said all outdoor works taking place in direct exposure to sunlight should be suspended from noon to 5.00 pm.

Citing high temperatures and humidity, the labour ministry called on all employers and self-employed people to suspend outdoor works between 12 to 5pm.

The warning came as the heatwave continues to grip Cyprus and the met service issued an orange alert which is in force until 5.00 pm on Friday.

“These conditions can endanger workers who are exposed to heat stress and/or seriously affect their health,” the announcement said.

The department also reminded employers of the relevant legislation that calls for necessary adjustments depending on the type of their work, taking into consideration the weather conditions and temperatures in the shade.

These include working in the coolest hours of the day and choosing a shady place to work at, taking frequent short breaks to rest in the shade or a space with air-conditioning or fans, and rotate workers depending on the activities performed.

Heavy labour during the hottest hours of the day (between 12 to 4pm) should be avoided  when possible, while employers should provide cool drinking water and head coverings to their staff working outside. The outdoor workers were instructed to wear light and loose clothing and sunglasses while they should also avoid drinking sugar-based drinks, alcohol or caffeine or eating large meals.

For more information contact the district offices of the labour inspection department in Nicosia at 22879191, Limassol 25827200, Larnaca 24805327, Paphos 26822715 and Famagusta at 23819750.