Balkan labour authorities issue heat‑wave safety directives for workers

In Bosnia and Herzegovina, the Savez samostalnih sindikata Bosne i Hercegovine called on employers to protect staff from extreme temperatures, urging shift changes, increased breaks, ample water, reduced exposure for outdoor sectors and stricter inspection of compliance.

Romanian Territorial Labour Inspectorates (Hunedoara, Sălaj and Alba) reminded employers that when temperatures exceed 37 °C or the heat‑humidity index passes 80, they must apply measures such as reduced work intensity, adequate ventilation, provision of 2–4 L of mineral water per shift, protective equipment and access to showers. Non‑compliance can attract fines of 1,000–5,000 lei; Alba also levied fines for undeclared employment.

Serbia’s Ministry of Construction, Transport and Infrastructure issued an urgent notice for construction firms, stating that when temperatures rise above 36 °C, especially between 11:00 and 16:00, employers must ensure frequent rest periods, hydration, shaded workspaces and follow the national safety guidelines.

In Croatia, the Confederation of Trade Unions appealed to employers to adjust working hours and adopt protective measures during the heat wave, highlighting risks such as fatigue, dehydration and heatstroke for workers in construction, municipal services and transport.