The Ministry of Education has issued strict instructions to all schools in response to increased dust levels in the atmosphere, which are causing health concerns, particularly for vulnerable groups. The guidance was circulated by the Ministry’s Office of Civil Defence, Safety and Health, with emphasis placed on heightened caution due to forecasts of very intense conditions.
Instructions issued to schools for elevated dust conditions
The Office of Civil Defence, Safety and Health of the Ministry of Education sent guidance to all schools, stressing that when dust levels reach very high concentrations, pupils and staff must remain indoors with no outdoor activities.
Classroom windows are to remain closed, while movement within school premises should be limited to what is strictly necessary. Special attention is required for individuals with respiratory conditions or other vulnerable health statuses.
Responsibility for monitoring air quality levels
The Ministry reminded school administrations that they are responsible for daily and immediate monitoring of dust levels, without waiting for the issuance of a new circular. Dust concentrations vary by area and can change throughout the day.
School directors are required to monitor levels of inhalable particulate matter with a diameter of less than 10 micrometres (PM10) via the website of the Department of Labour Inspection, Air Quality Sector, as well as through the “Air Quality Cyprus” mobile application.
Colour-coded guidance for school operations
Based on the colour-coded air quality indicators published on the Department of Labour Inspection air quality platform, school administrations are instructed to apply the following measures:
Green level : All school activities proceed as normal.
Yellow level : All school activities proceed as normal. Monitoring is recommended for pupils with diagnosed health conditions that may worsen due to airborne particles. Use of a mask is encouraged in cases of discomfort.
Orange level : All outdoor activities within and outside school premises are cancelled, including school excursions and events. Physical Education classes are recommended to be avoided.
Red level : All outdoor activities within and outside school premises are cancelled. Movement in outdoor areas is restricted and permitted only with the use of a mask. Physical Education classes are cancelled. During breaks, pupils may move only for essential needs such as using the toilet, drinking water, or visiting the school canteen. Where facilities allow, school management may adjust schedules to ensure changes of environment and rest for pupils.
Health advice and use of protective masks
In cases where unwanted symptoms related to dust exposure occur, a visit to the treating physician or to Emergency Departments is recommended, in coordination with parents or guardians.
It is also noted that, as was the case during the pandemic, pupils should bring their own surgical mask from home during dust episodes.