High concentrations of dust were recorded in the atmosphere on Wednesday, measurements by the labour inspection department showed.

The department warned that the dust contains small inhalable particles that may have a negative impact on human health.

The public is therefore urged to limit outdoor movement until the phenomenon subsides, with particular emphasis on vulnerable groups such as children, the elderly and people with existing health conditions.

The department also reminded employers of their obligations under occupational safety and health rules, which require a risk assessment followed by appropriate organisational and/or technical measures to protect workers in open spaces.

It advised employees in such environments to use suitable personal protective equipment.

Hourly measurements taken at 11am showed dust concentration levels of 44.4μg/m³ in Nicosia, 132.6μg/m³ in Limassol, 79.3μg/m³ in Larnaca, 82.8μg/m³ in Paralimni, 180.2μg/m³ in Paphos, 126.3μg/m³ in Zygi and 178.6μg/m³ in Agia Marina Xyliatou.

Legislation limits the average daily concentration to 50μg/m³ (micrograms per cubic metre).

Further information and real-time updates on hourly dust measurements are available on the labour inspection department’s air quality website and through the free mobile app “Air Quality Cyprus”.