Famagusta criticizes sandblasting work at the port over health risks

Sandblasting carried out at the Port of Famagusta without adequate protective measures sparked serious public debate. Experts said the dust generated during the work could have contained heavy metals and carcinogenic substances, posing a threat to the health of port employees and local residents.

Chemist Özbir Akbaşak noted that sandblasting releases microscopic particles of old paint, rust and coatings into the air. According to him, old vessels and metal structures may contain lead, cadmium, asbestos and other toxic substances capable of causing both acute and chronic diseases, including cancer.

The expert emphasized that such work cannot be carried out without full isolation of the work area, dust suppression systems and measures preventing exposure of others to hazardous substances. He described the absence of the necessary precautions as a serious violation that threatens public health.

Associate professor and lawyer Cenan Eskimukhtaroğlu also said the situation was contrary to the law. According to him, the Constitution guarantees everyone the right to live in a safe and healthy environment, and environmental authorities are obliged to prevent such risks.

He also referred to the occupational health and safety law, under which the employer is first and foremost required to apply collective protection measures. According to the lawyer, truck drivers, customs officers and port workers were exposed to hazardous dust without the necessary protective equipment, creating a direct threat to their health.