Nicosia: High concentrations of dust were observed in the air on Monday, as reported by measurements from the ground stations of the Air Quality Monitoring Network operated by the Department of Labour Inspection. The department has issued a warning to the public, particularly targeting vulnerable populations such as children, older people, and those with health issues, advising them to avoid open spaces until the situation improves, due to potential health risks posed by the small respirable particles in the dust.
According to Cyprus News Agency, the Department of Labour Inspection emphasized in a press release that employers should adhere to the Safety and Health at Work (Code of Practice for the Protection of Persons at Work During Dust Episodes) Order of 2022 (P. I. 410/2022). Employers are required to take appropriate measures, including organizational and technical, to protect employees working in open spaces. The use of personal protective equipment by workers is also recommended during such episodes.
Hourly dust concentrations recorded at 10:00 am showed varying levels across different cities: 40.1 µg/m3 in Nicosia, 133.0 µg/m3 in Limassol, 65.1 µg/m3 in Larnaca, 83.8 µg/m3 in Paralimni, 191.0 µg/m3 in Paphos, 42.7 µg/m3 in Zygi, and 53.5 µg/m3 in Ayia Marina Xyliatou. The measurements indicate that several locations exceeded the daily limit value for PM10, which is set at 50 µg/m3 according to relevant legislation.
For more information on current pollutant concentrations and real-time updates, the public can visit the website www.airquality.gov.cy or use the free mobile application 'Air Quality Cyprus'.