Regarding the Tragic Workplace Accident in the Geçitkale–Dörtyol Area
PRESS RELEASE: Regarding the Tragic Workplace Accident in the Geçitkale–Dörtyol Area
Date: March 31, 2026
Subject: Fatal Occupational Accident Resulting from Contact with an 11kV Medium Voltage (MV) Line
1. Condolences and Deep Sorrow
We have learned with great sadness of the tragic workplace accident that occurred yesterday around noon during a land subdivision (parcelation) work in the Geçitkale–Dörtyol area, resulting from contact with an 11,000V Medium Voltage line.
We extend our heartfelt condolences to the family of the deceased, Erol Demir, wish a speedy recovery to his injured child, and offer our sympathies to his grieving family and the entire sector community.
2. Technical Assessment and Regulatory Reminder
As the Cyprus Turkish Electrical Contractors Association (KTEMB), we are closely monitoring the process with due sensitivity until technical reports and field investigations are completed. However, in light of initial findings, we would like to remind the public of the following regarding works carried out at Medium Voltage (MV) levels:
- Medium Voltage Risk Management:
Medium Voltage lines at the 11,000V level carry a high risk of arcing, and safe approach distances are of vital importance. For any mechanical or construction activities to be carried out near such lines, the required safety zones must be strictly observed in accordance with Chapter 170 of the Electricity Development Law. - Authorized Contracting and Supervision:
In accordance with our legislation, any work to be carried out near electrical networks must be conducted by professional electrical contractors registered with our Association, holding valid authorization certificates, and in coordination with KIB-TEK. This is a legal obligation. - Occupational Health and Safety (OHS) Protocols:
Whether standard Occupational Health and Safety protocols—such as de-energizing, grounding, or isolating the work area—were fully implemented will be clarified through the judicial investigation process.
3. Our Institutional and Call for Responsibility
Every workplace accident in our sector once again demonstrates how vital inspection mechanisms and technical competence are. As KTEMB, we strongly advocate that all electrical works must be carried out strictly based on engineering discipline and life safety principles, beyond any political or administrative considerations.
“Electricity is not something to be taken lightly; any intervention on Medium Voltage lines requires the highest level of technical equipment and authorized expertise.”
4. Conclusion
We hereby state that we are ready to provide technical expertise to the administrative and judicial investigation processes regarding this accident, and that we will closely follow the matter to ensure that those responsible are identified and that such tragedies do not occur again. We once again call on all sector stakeholders and employers to strictly comply with occupational safety rules.
Board of Directors
Cyprus Turkish Electrical Contractors Association (KTEMB)
