Cyprus's Department of Labour Inspection (ΤΕΕ) has ordered a mandatory suspension of outdoor heavy and medium work, along with two-wheeler delivery services, for today. The measure follows an orange heat warning issued by the Department of Meteorology, with inland temperatures forecast to reach 43°C, among the highest readings of the summer so far. A further orange warning has already been issued for Thursday, with similarly extreme temperatures expected to persist before easing over the weekend.
Timing and affected areas
The suspension applies from 12:00 to 16:00. It covers inland areas of Cyprus at altitudes below 300 metres, located more than 10 kilometres from the coastline, where temperatures run highest and cooling sea breezes offer no relief.
Scope of the measure
The stoppage includes all outdoor heavy and medium work in the affected areas. It also extends to delivery services carried out using motorcycles, mopeds, bicycles, scooters and electric scooters, covering the transport of food, products, mail and other items. Coastal areas, where temperatures are running several degrees cooler, are not affected by the restriction.
Guidance for other areas and activities
The Department has reminded employers that, in areas and activities not covered by the suspension, they remain obliged to apply all prescribed measures to protect workers from heat stress. These include frequent breaks in shaded or air-conditioned spaces, the provision of cool drinking water, and adjustments to work schedules, with the aim of safeguarding employees' health and safety.
