The Greek government has announced mandatory work breaks for outdoor and high-risk workers as the country grapples with an intense heatwave pushing temperatures above 40 degrees Celsius (104°F).
Under the new emergency measures, outdoor labor, especially in construction and delivery services, is now restricted during the hottest hours of the day. The Ministry of Labor confirmed that employers must provide workers with shaded areas, adequate hydration, and enforced rest periods.
The measures aim to protect workers from heat exhaustion and related health risks as meteorologists warn that the extreme heat is expected to persist throughout the week.
Public health authorities have urged residents to stay indoors, avoid unnecessary travel, and check on vulnerable groups, including the elderly and children. Hospitals across Athens and other major cities have reported a rise in heat-related admissions since the weekend.
The National Observatory of Athens recorded peak temperatures above 41°C (105.8°F) in parts of central and southern Greece on Monday, with similar conditions expected to continue.
In addition to mandatory work breaks, authorities have also closed popular archaeological sites, including the Acropolis, during peak afternoon hours to safeguard tourists and staff.
