Enhancing safety measures in Northern Cyprus construction sector

The Northern Cyprus Civil Engineers Association (KTMMOB), in partnership with the Chamber of Engineers and Architects of Turkish Cypriots (İMO), organized a workshop on “Workplace Health and Safety” at the Golden Tulip Hotel in Nicosia.

The workshop was graced by distinguished speakers such as Abdullah Ekinci, the President of the Civil Engineers Chamber, and Sezgi Çobanoğlu Ballı, the Director of the Labor Department under the Ministry of Labor and Social Security. The discussions revolved around pivotal topics like Facility Management and Health and Safety Services.

Ekinci emphasized the importance of prioritizing worker support over capital in dealing with occupational health and safety matters, referencing the high incidence of fatal workplace accidents.

It was highlighted that the Labor Safety Law, enacted in 2008, has yet to be fully implemented in the construction industry.

Ballı pointed out the continuous efforts to update educational programs and enhance the efficiency of inspections: in 2023, 400 work-related accidents were investigated. From January to March 2024, inspections were carried out at 80 construction sites, and 42 work-related accidents were probed.

Seran Aysal, the President of the Union of Turkish Cypriot Engineers and Architects, underscored the cultural facet of workplace safety and advocated for heightened awareness and education.

Asım Akansoy, the Secretary-General of the Turkish Republican Party (RTP), identified a gap in awareness concerning health and safety issues. He urged for a social consensus and political initiatives to rectify the deficiencies in occupational health and safety standards.