The Republic of Cyprus has a robust framework for ensuring a safe and healthy work environment, primarily based on the Safety and Health at Work Law of 1996 (89(I)/1996) and its subsequent amendments. Influenced by European Union directives, Cyprus' health and safety legislation maintains international standards.

Key Principles and Responsibilities

Employers in Cyprus have a primary responsibility to ensure the safety, health, and welfare of their employees. This includes conducting risk assessments, providing safe work equipment, implementing control measures to minimize hazards, and consulting with employees on safety and health matters. Employees, on the other hand, must take reasonable care of their own and others' safety and health, cooperate with employers in meeting safety obligations, and not interfere with safety measures. Self-employed individuals are also responsible for their own safety and that of others affected by their activities.

Risk Assessments

Employers with five or more employees are legally obligated to conduct thorough risk assessments to identify hazards in the workplace, take preventive and protective measures based on risk assessment findings, and maintain a written record of risk assessments.

Workplace Safety

Specific areas regulated under Cypriot health and safety legislation include work equipment, personal protective equipment (PPE), manual handling, construction sites, and dangerous substances. Employers must provide safe work equipment, appropriate PPE, assess risks from manual handling, manage risks from dangerous substances, and follow specific regulations for construction sites.

Health and Well-being

Health and safety laws in Cyprus also promote overall health and well-being. Employers must ensure adequate workplace conditions, provide appropriate first aid arrangements, conduct workstation assessments, and address psychosocial risks and work-related stress.

Enforcement and Penalties

The Department of Labour Inspection within the Ministry of Labour and Social Insurance is responsible for enforcing health and safety laws in Cyprus. Inspectors have the power to conduct inspections, issue improvement and prohibition notices, and initiate legal proceedings. Non-compliance with health and safety laws can result in administrative fines and, in severe cases, criminal prosecution.

Occupational health and safety (OHS) is a crucial aspect of any workplace, and in Cyprus, it is primarily regulated by the Department of Labour Inspection, Ministry of Labour and Social Insurance. This body sets the standards for OHS, inspects workplaces, investigates incidents, and provides information and training. Cyprus, being a member of the EU, also adheres to the resources and directives provided by EU-OSHA (European Agency for Safety and Health at Work).

The main OHS law in Cyprus is the Safety and Health at Work Law of 1996 (Law 89(I)/1996). This law outlines the responsibilities of both employers and employees and establishes the framework for OHS management.

Employer Responsibilities

Employers have several responsibilities under the law. They are required to conduct thorough risk assessments to identify and mitigate workplace hazards. They must also implement safe systems of work, provide appropriate training, and supervise employees to ensure safe operations.

Where hazards cannot be fully eliminated, employers must provide and ensure the use of necessary Personal Protective Equipment (PPE). They must also provide employees with relevant OHS information, instruction, and training.

Employers are required to consult with employees on OHS matters and encourage their participation in identifying and controlling risks. They also have a duty to report serious accidents, injuries, and dangerous occurrences to the Department of Labour Inspection, as well as to investigate the causes for prevention purposes.

Employee Responsibilities

Employees also have responsibilities under the law. They must follow established safe work practices and instructions provided by their employers. They are obligated to use PPE provided by employers correctly.

Employees must report hazardous situations, accidents, near misses, and any injuries to their employers. They also have the right and responsibility to participate in workplace safety and health committees and other OHS initiatives.

Specific OHS Standards and Practices

There are specific OHS standards and practices for different aspects of the workplace. These include regulations for the handling, storage, use, and disposal of hazardous chemicals, safety in the construction industry, the safe design, use, and maintenance of machinery, fire prevention, emergency procedures, and evacuation.

Employers must also provide adequate first-aid facilities and trained personnel. In some cases, employers may need to arrange for health surveillance for employees exposed to specific hazards.

Workplace inspections are a crucial component in maintaining the safety and well-being of employees in Cyprus. These inspections aim to verify compliance with relevant regulations, identify potential hazards, recommend risk mitigation measures, and promote a culture of safety and health in the workplace.

Department of Labour Inspection (DLI)

The Department of Labour Inspection (DLI), under the Ministry of Labour and Social Insurance, is the primary authority responsible for conducting workplace inspections and enforcing safety and health regulations in Cyprus.

Inspection Procedures

The inspection process typically begins with a notice of inspection, followed by an opening conference where the inspector explains the purpose and scope of the inspection. The inspector then conducts a walk-through inspection of the workplace, observing work practices, identifying hazards, and examining relevant records. Employee interviews may also be conducted for further insights. The inspection concludes with a closing conference where the inspector discusses their findings and any observed violations. A formal inspection report is then issued, outlining the findings, required corrective actions, and deadlines for compliance.

Inspection Criteria

Workplace inspections in Cyprus cover a broad range of safety and health aspects. These include machinery and equipment safety, handling of hazardous substances, fire safety measures, ergonomics, electrical safety, availability and correct use of personal protective equipment (PPE), and the overall workplace environment.

Inspection Frequency

The frequency of workplace inspections in Cyprus is determined by the industry and the assessed risk level, with high-risk workplaces typically inspected more frequently.

Follow-Up Actions

Employers are required to take prompt corrective actions to address identified violations and hazards within the stipulated deadlines. The DLI may conduct follow-up inspections to ensure compliance with these corrective actions. Non-compliance can lead to administrative fines, or in severe cases, prosecution.

Workplace accidents are unfortunate events that require immediate attention and proper handling. Employers are required to notify the nearest District Labour Inspection Office as soon as a serious or fatal accident occurs. This notification should be done through the fastest means possible, such as telephone, fax, or email. Following this, a formal written notification must be submitted within 15 days of the accident using the "Claim for an Injury Benefit / Accident Notification" form.

Investigation of Workplace Accidents

The District Labour Inspection (DLI) is tasked with investigating workplace accidents. The aim is to determine the cause of the accident and identify any safety violations. Employers are required to cooperate with DLI investigations and take necessary steps to preserve the accident scene. The DLI may prepare a report outlining the findings of the investigation. Victims, their representatives, or others involved in legal proceedings may request copies of these reports.

Compensation Claims and Entitlements

Injured employees are entitled to certain benefits following a workplace accident. These include reimbursement of medical expenses related to the accident. Employees who are incapable of working due to a workplace accident or occupational disease could receive a physical injury allowance for up to 12 months.

Claim Process

The claim process begins with a medical evaluation. The injured employee must see a doctor for a medical evaluation and documentation of the injuries. The accident must then be reported to the employer. Finally, the necessary claim forms and supporting documentation should be submitted to the Social Insurance Services.

Legal Considerations

Employers can be held liable for workplace accidents if negligence or safety violations contributed to the accident. Employees may seek legal representation to assist with compensation claims or pursue legal action against employers in cases of negligence.