Oekdy-Sek union raises safety concerns over lifeguard staffing in Cyprus

The trade union Oekdy-Sek has formally raised concerns regarding the staffing levels of lifeguards at Cyprus beaches for the current summer season. The union argues that the current shortage poses a significant threat to public safety and emphasizes that a single lifeguard cannot realistically manage a life-threatening emergency within the required three-minute window. Effective rescue protocols necessitate a second lifeguard to handle critical tasks, such as calling for an ambulance, deploying a defibrillator, and providing physical assistance. On June 3, 2025, during a meeting of the Salamis National Beach Safety Plan monitoring committee, it was highlighted that two lifeguards per tower are essential for safety. The union claims that some beaches reduce staffing to a single person to secure the 'Blue Flag' designation for tourism, effectively prioritizing profit over safety. Furthermore, the union identifies the seasonal nature of the employment as a major deterrent for recruitment. To address these systemic issues, Oekdy-Sek advocates for extending the duration of lifeguard contracts to increase the attractiveness and stability of the profession.