Greece orders outdoor work halt as heatwave intensifies
Greece has introduced emergency workplace measures as a severe heatwave brings extreme temperatures across the country, with authorities ordering temporary suspensions of certain outdoor work during the hottest hours of the day.
The measures, which are expected to remain in effect as temperatures peak on Tuesday and continue into Wednesday, aim to protect workers from heat-related health risks.
Remote work encouraged for vulnerable employees
Under the new guidelines, employers must allow remote work for employees considered vulnerable to heat exposure whenever their duties can be performed remotely.
The measure applies to workers with conditions such as heart or lung diseases, diabetes, kidney problems and blood pressure disorders, as well as pregnant women, employees over the age of 60 and those working in particularly hot environments.
Workers must provide medical confirmation or an assessment from an occupational health physician to qualify.
Outdoor work suspended during peak heat hours
Outdoor manual work must stop between 12:00 p.m. and 5:00 p.m. when temperature and humidity levels exceed safety limits or when the Wet Bulb Globe Temperature (WBGT) index reaches dangerous levels.
The restrictions apply to sectors where employees face prolonged exposure to high temperatures.
Construction, deliveries and industrial sectors affected
The emergency rules cover several industries, including:
* Construction and outdoor engineering projects.
* Motorcycle and scooter delivery services.
* Ship repair facilities, with special working arrangements depending on heat conditions.
* Mines and quarries, where operations must stop once safety thresholds are exceeded.
Employers required to provide heat protection
Employers must also take additional measures to reduce heat risks, including providing shaded rest areas, access to drinking water, protective clothing and sun protection.
Companies are also required to improve ventilation and cooling systems where possible, schedule physically demanding tasks outside peak heat hours and ensure workers receive regular breaks.
Authorities have urged employers to assess risks related to dehydration, workload and workers’ ability to adapt to extreme temperatures as the heatwave continues.
Source:tovima
