Nicosia, Cyprus. The Cyprus Workers’ Confederation (Sek) on Wednesday urged employers to implement measures to protect staff from heat stress, warning that prolonged exposure to high temperatures can seriously harm health and may be fatal. The union said heat stress should be treated as a major occupational hazard rather than as a routine discomfort of summer work.
Workers most at risk
Sek said the risk is particularly high for employees working outdoors or in hot environments. It identified construction workers, agricultural labourers, port staff and employees in industrial facilities as among those most exposed.
The union said the danger increases when high temperatures are combined with physically demanding work, humidity and prolonged exposure to direct sunlight.
Health effects and employer responsibility
Sek warned that ineffective temperature regulation can lead to exhaustion, cramps, dizziness, fainting and heat stroke, which can be life-threatening.
The union said employers bear primary responsibility for the health and safety of their employees. It called on companies to carry out risk assessments before hazardous conditions arise and to implement preventive measures in line with safety legislation.
Recommended protective measures
Sek said employers should consider adjusting working hours to cooler times of day, providing regular breaks, ensuring easy access to cool drinking water and making shaded areas available for workers to recover.
It also said employers must follow guidance issued by the Department of Labour Inspection and comply with the Code of Practice on Heat Stress.