Northern Cyprus bans outdoor work for 10 days amid heat wave
The Ministry of Labour and Social Security of the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus ordered a temporary prohibition on outdoor work from 12:00 to 16:00 local time, effective 5 August through 15 August 2026. The measure, prompted by meteorological forecasts warning of temperatures reaching 40 °C, aims to protect workers from heat‑related illnesses such as heat stroke and severe dehydration.
The ban applies to all open‑air activities, with particular emphasis on the construction and agriculture sectors. Employers outside residential zones may shift start times earlier and reschedule the transport of concrete, building materials and machinery to comply with the restriction. A similar prohibition was imposed earlier this summer, from 22 July to 1 August.
Labour Minister Oğuzhan Hasipoğlu said inspections are ongoing to ensure compliance and warned that violations will be met with legal action. The decision reflects a broader effort to safeguard public health during an extreme heat episode affecting the island.
Entities: Ministry of Labor and Social Security (Northern Cyprus) · Ministry of Labour and Social Security · Northern Cyprus Meteorological Department · Northern Cyprus Meteorology Department · Oğuzhan Hasipoğlu · Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus · construction sector