Greece labor inspectors carry out 41,486 checks in first half
Greece’s Independent Labour Inspection Authority carried out 41,486 workplace inspections during the first half of 2026, imposing 8,690 sanctions and fines totaling €25.57 million, as authorities intensify efforts to enforce labor legislation.
Inspections have focused on working hours, undeclared employment, implementation of the Digital Work Card and occupational health and safety.
Authorities are using risk-analysis tools and data from the ERGANI information system to target businesses and sectors where the greatest compliance risks have been identified.
Inspections continue to rise
The number of inspections has increased steadily in recent years.
According to the authority’s 2025 report, inspections rose from 65,286 in 2022 to 74,031 in 2023 and 79,290 in 2024, before reaching 82,233 in 2025.
The authority has also exceeded its annual inspection targets throughout the 2023-2025 period, which officials say reflects stronger operational capacity and a greater presence in workplaces.
Labor relations inspectors lead enforcement
During the first six months of 2026, Labor Relations Inspectors conducted 23,636 inspections.
The inspections resulted in 6,227 sanctions and fines totaling €21.32 million.
Health and Safety Inspectors carried out 14,434 inspections, imposing 2,067 sanctions and €2.69 million in fines.
Special Labor Inspectors conducted a further 3,416 inspections, resulting in 396 sanctions and €1.56 million in fines.
Tourism sector under scrutiny
Speaking to the Athens-Macedonian News Agency, Labour Inspection deputy governor Charalambos Vourtsis said inspections were targeted based on previous findings, accumulated experience and risk analysis.
During the summer season, particular attention is being given to tourism-related businesses in areas with high levels of tourist activity, he said.
Inspectors are focusing on working-hour limits, undeclared employment and compliance with the Digital Work Card.
Complaints from workers and trade unions are also used to identify businesses for inspection.
High-risk businesses targeted
The authority’s operational plan prioritizes businesses and sectors with high indicators of labor-law violations, as well as companies that have not been inspected during the previous three years or have previously been found in violation.
Seasonal businesses are also a major focus.
Inspectors are targeting workplaces employing posted workers and citizens of third countries, with the aim of preventing potential labor exploitation.
Businesses using or preparing to implement the Digital Work Card are also subject to targeted inspections.
Delivery and construction sectors among priorities
Increased inspections are planned in delivery and transport services employing motorcycle couriers, as well as in wholesale trade.
Authorities are also targeting areas and sectors with high levels of child employment or an increased risk of labor exploitation.
Large construction projects are another priority for inspectors.
Health and safety authorities are conducting inspections focused on workplace safety requirements, including protections for workers with disabilities and measures addressing heat stress.
Technology boosts enforcement
Vourtsis said improved operational performance by inspectors, combined with new technological tools, has enabled the authority to carry out more inspections while improving their quality.
“The Labour Inspection Authority remains vigilant and aims to continuously strengthen compliance with labor legislation, with transparency and effectiveness,” he said.
Special Labor Inspectors are focusing primarily on construction and technical projects, accommodation businesses, restaurants and companies providing temporary employment.
The authority said inspections will continue throughout the year, with resources directed toward sectors and workplaces where risk analysis indicates a higher likelihood of violations.
Source:efsyn.gr
