Workplace Safety in Cyprus Under Scrutiny After Two Fatal Accidents in 24 Hours
Authorities Investigate Deadly Incidents as Labour Inspection Department Enforces Hundreds of Site Closures and Legal Actions Annually
Two fatal workplace accidents that occurred within a 24-hour period on May 7 and 8, 2025, have brought renewed attention to occupational safety in Cyprus and the way such incidents are addressed by authorities.
Each year, around 20 workplace safety cases are taken to court, and approximately 150 out-of-court fines are issued. According to the Department of Labour Inspection, 360 prohibition orders have been issued annually to suspend operations at unsafe construction sites.
OffsiteNews contacted the Labour Inspection Office, where officials confirmed that investigations into both recent fatal accidents are ongoing. Statements will be taken, followed by the preparation of detailed investigation reports. These reports are expected in the coming weeks and will be shared with the families of the deceased. If warranted, the Labour Office will proceed with submitting the case to the court.
Aristos Oikonomides, Director of the Labour Inspection Department, told OffsiteNews that both fatal accidents will be thoroughly investigated according to the provisions of the law, and appropriate protective measures will be taken.
Oikonomides also noted that administrative fines can reach up to €5,000 following a conviction in criminal proceedings. Penalties for serious violations can escalate to €80,000 and up to four years of imprisonment.
The first incident occurred around 14:30 on Wednesday afternoon, when a man was found dead inside an elevator shaft at a construction site in Germasogeia, Limassol. The deceased, who was working at the site, has been identified as Georgios Konstantinou, 43, from Limassol.
Police and the Labour Inspection Department cordoned off the scene and launched a joint investigation.
The second fatality involved 34-year-old Aldahdouh Housain, a Syrian asylum seeker and permanent resident of Paphos. According to police, he was fatally injured by falling timber while unloading materials with a forklift.
The incident occurred at 16:30 on Wednesday in the parking area of the Church of Agios Georgios in Peyia.
Police have arrested two individuals in connection with the second fatal accident—a 64-year-old driver and a 45-year-old contractor. Both are being held to assist with the ongoing investigation.
