The Cyprus Electricity Authority (EAC) has been ordered to pay a significant €40,000 penalty by the Nicosia District Court. This substantial fine follows serious workplace safety violations that regrettably resulted in the tragic death of one employee and severe injuries to another. The court's decision, stemming from a criminal prosecution by the Department of Labour Inspection, clearly indicates a significant failure by the state-owned utility to maintain essential occupational health and safety standards.
The unfortunate incident occurred on June 22, 2021, during complex technical operations involving an electrical short circuit. This catastrophic event caused severe burns to two EAC personnel who were performing their duties. A thorough investigation, led by the Ministry of Labour and Social Insurance's inspection department, subsequently uncovered numerous breaches that demonstrably contributed to the fatal outcome. The court's judgment highlights a systemic weakness in the EAC's protocols for protecting its workforce during high-risk activities.
Central to the court's findings was the EAC's omission in conducting a mandatory risk assessment before a voltage withstand test. This crucial preliminary step is designed to identify and mitigate potential hazards effectively. Furthermore, the authority was found to have neglected establishing and implementing adequate preventive and protective measures appropriate for the task. Compounding these oversights, employees reportedly lacked the necessary specialised training for the complex duties they were undertaking, leaving them inadequately prepared for the inherent dangers.
The court also identified deficiencies concerning the equipment that was in use. Specifically, a fire extinguisher found in a service vehicle was discovered to be unmaintained, starkly illustrating a broader disregard for essential safety protocols. These specific lapses were placed within the context of a wider pattern of non-compliance across several regulatory frameworks. The violations encompassed rules for occupational safety and health management, minimum standards for work equipment, and stipulations for fire extinguisher inspection and maintenance, in addition to overarching occupational safety and health legislation.
The repercussions of this tragic event extend far beyond the immediate human suffering. The loss of one employee and the severe incapacitation of another represent an immeasurable sorrow for their families and colleagues. The ruling serves as a potent reminder that strict adherence to safety regulations is not merely a procedural requirement but a vital imperative for preventing fatalities and serious injuries. For the EAC, the €40,000 fine represents a considerable financial burden, but more importantly, it signals a profound need for self-reflection and a comprehensive reform of its safety culture and operational procedures.
The Department of Labour Inspection's persistent pursuit of this case underscores its dedication to ensuring that all employers, regardless of their status, are held accountable for their employees' well-being. The implications of this judgment are significant, not only for the EAC but for all organisations operating in Cyprus. It reinforces the principle that a robust and proactive approach to occupational health and safety is paramount, demanding rigorous risk management, comprehensive training, and meticulous equipment maintenance. The tragic events of June 2021 should act as an indelible catalyst for positive change, prompting a renewed focus on protecting human capital within the nation's critical infrastructure sectors.