A. Protection of Employees from Heat Stress in the Private Sector
In view of the impending high temperatures and the risk of heat stress, emergency protection measures are being activated for private sector employees. Employers must implement technical and organizational prevention measures in accordance with circular no. 34666/2024-06-03, titled:
“Prevention of Heat Stress for Employees” (ADA: RG1N46NLAG-WO6).
The measures include:
- Adequate water supply
- Frequent breaks
- Workplace shading and cooling
- Adjustment of working hours
B. Mandatory Suspension of Outdoor Work Due to Heatwave
On Monday, July 21, 2025, a mandatory suspension of outdoor manual labor will come into effect between 12:00 PM and 5:00 PM in areas with dangerously high temperatures and high discomfort indices (WBGT), according to the HNMS.
Affected areas:
- Evros (Soufli)
- Serres
- Larissa
- Boeotia (Aliartos)
- Chalkidiki (Polygyros)
- Imathia (Veria)
- Trikala, Phthiotis, Aetolia-Acarnania
- Ionian Islands, Eastern Rhodes
- Coastal areas: Corinthia, Argolis, Arcadia, Laconia, Messenia
Suspended works include:
– Technical and construction projects
– Construction sites and shipbuilding/repair zones
– Deliveries by two-wheeled vehicles (delivery)
The suspension applies to all employees, regardless of contract or platform (e.g., freelancers, app-based delivery).
Exceptions:
Critical infrastructure such as health, transport, and public utilities (hospitals, water supply, electricity, public transport) are exempt, provided that the prescribed protection measures are strictly applied.
Important:
Non-compliance entails a fine of 2,000 euros per employee, imposed by the Labor Inspectorate (in accordance with Articles 23 and 24 of Law 3996/2011).
C. Mandatory Teleworking for Vulnerable Groups
Employees belonging to high-risk vulnerable groups (according to Table Annex 2 of circular 34666/2024) must perform their work remotely (teleworking), if the nature of the work permits.
Businesses are obliged to facilitate the transition to teleworking in areas affected by excessive heat.
D. Flexibility in Working Hour Arrangements
To improve working conditions during a heatwave and adjust arrival and departure times, employers are given flexibility not to pre-register changes in the ERGANI Information System.
The State implements targeted heat stress protection measures to ensure the safety and health of private sector employees. Compliance with instructions, flexibility in teleworking, and mandatory suspension of outdoor work are key pillars for the effective management of occupational safety during heatwave conditions.
Read the official decision of the Ministry of Labor here.
