The country enters for the next 72 hours in the oven”. The thermometer will read up to 43 degrees Celsius today, and the heat wave will continue throughout the week. In that context, extraordinary measures are applied to workers in both the private and public sectors.
Included a mandatory work stoppage was arranged during the hours when the thermometer hits red, for those who work outside (construction, delivery services, construction sites, cleaning, etc.).
The measures are valid from today, Tuesday, July 16, until Friday, July 19, to be decided by the Ministry of Labor and Social Security.
By circular of 15.7.2024, the following measures are taken:
A mandatory work stoppage is in place
For Tuesday 16/07/2024
- For employees of businesses located mainly in Macedonia, Thrace, Epirus, western and eastern Central Greece, Thessaly and western and eastern Peloponnese, where it is expected, according to the Bulletin of Emergency Deterioration of the Weather (EDEK) from 15.07. 2024 in particular. high temperatures prevail, it is mandatory to stop work during the time period 12.00-17.00, Tuesday 16.7.2024 for manual work done outside.
Indicative works are cited in technical and construction projects, construction sites, distribution and transportation of products and objects in a two-wheeled vehicle (delivery), etc., when the temperature is equal to or higher than 40°C. At the same time, from Wednesday 16.7.2024
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For Wednesday 17/07/2024 to Friday 19/07/2024
- For all employees in businesses, for manual work, carried out outside, when the temperature is equal to or higher than 40 ° C, it is mandatory to stop their work during the period 12:00-17: 00. Examples include work on technical and construction projects, construction sites, distribution and transportation of products and objects with two-wheel roller skates, roller skates, etc. (delivery), etc.
- It is pointed out, especially in relation to work in a shipbuilding repair zone, that the obligation of the above provisions applies to a temperature set at a value above 38°C.
- As long as the measure regarding the suspension of distribution operations is implemented, the option of ordering by the user directly from the store (take away) may be kept active as well as the eventual possibility of distribution with vehicles for private use other than the two wheels and other means of the previous paragraph are defined, such as these in Article 2 of Law 2696/1999, under more specific terms or conditions (provided they have air conditioning).
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Where suspension of operations does not apply
The suspension of operations does not apply to economic activities related to important socially vital infrastructures in the health, transport and public utility sectors (health facilities, water supply, electricity, air transport, handling, sea, land and rail transport), provided that such action is taken. of other technical and organizational measures of circular No. 34666/03.06.2024 “Preventing thermal stress of employees”, including organizing working time.
The fine
In the event that the mandatory stoppage measure is not complied with, the Labor Inspectorate imposes a monetary fine of 2,000 euros per each employee of the company.
Telecommunications
For employees who have a dependent working relationship in the private sector of the economy related to high risk groups, especially in situations where they are exposed to aggravating circumstances in the areas where high temperatures are expected to prevail, according to the Emergency Weather Deterioration Bulletin (EDEK) from 15.07.2024, the possibility is given, remote work with the telework system if possible due to the nature of their work.
What is true for the public sector?
For civil servants belonging to vulnerable groups and working in services whose headquarters are in an area where the temperature will prevail from 40 degrees Celsius and above, it is provided. the telecommunications application until Friday 19 July.
If this cannot be done, due to the nature of their duty, they may not attend their service andusing special permission (up to two working days per calendar year).
Extraordinary measures to organize working time
For the convenience of the employees during any change in their time of arrival and departure from work, employers may not register in advance in the PS ERGANI any change in the organization of working time.
Tips for dealing with the heat
Gerasimos Siassos, Rector of the University of Athens and Professor of Cardiology at the 3rd University Cardiology Clinic of the Hospital “Sotiria” 5 practical tips for vulnerable groups.
1. Avoid exposure to the sun and move during high radiation hours (12:00-16:00)
It is essential to stay in shady and cool places during the peak hours of sunlight. Staying in a cool place, preferably with natural ventilation or air conditioning, helps to reduce body temperature and the pressure on heart function.
2. Stay hydrated
Consume plenty of fluids, up to 1.5-2 liters per day. It is important to avoid alcohol and caffeine as they increase dehydration. Patients with heart failure should regularly monitor their body weight to avoid possible systemic congestion from increased fluid administration.
3. Medication modification in collaboration with the Cardiologist
Contact your cardiologist regarding the possible modification of the dose or frequency of administration of antihypertensive and diuretic drugs, especially if symptoms such as weakness, dizziness or hypothermia occur. Dose reduction after cardiology consultation. Regular monitoring of blood pressure and body weight is essential.
4. Avoid heavy physical work, excessive exercise and large meals
Heavy physical work, excessive exercise and large meals can increase the pressure on the heart and cause complications. Light activities are preferred and avoid vigorous exercise during the hot hours of the day. Eat plenty of fruit and vegetables and avoid large fatty meals.
5. Appropriate clothing and frequent lukewarm showers
Wear light clothes and light colors to help the body stay cool. Frequent lukewarm showers help to reduce body temperature.