As workers exposed to the sun, the risk of overexposure to ultraviolet radiation (UVR) is significant, especially here in Queensland. Cumulative exposure to UVR can result in short-term sunburn and, in the long term, lead to skin cancer and eye damage.
Understanding UVR: Ultraviolet radiation, emanating from the sun yet invisible and unfelt, poses risks when the UV index reaches three or higher, causing skin damage even on cool and cloudy days as UVR penetrates clouds. It can also permeate loosely woven clothing and reflect off surfaces like metal, concrete, and water.
Risks of UVR Overexposure: Overexposure to UVR can manifest as:
- Sunburn
- Sunspots
- Skin Cancer:
- Basal Cell Carcinoma (BCC): Common but less dangerous, appearing as a lump or scaly area, often red, pale, or pearly.
- Squamous Cell Carcinoma (SCC): Less common, not as dangerous as melanoma, may spread if untreated.
- Melanoma: The most dangerous, characterized by changes in existing spots or new spots, freckles, or moles. If untreated, it can spread to other parts of the body, with approximately 1200 Australians succumbing to melanoma annually.
Managing Risks: Given Queensland's status with the highest skin cancer rate globally, proactive sun exposure management is crucial. Establishing a sun-safe environment within businesses and workers adopting protective measures against UVR is imperative.
For Workers: To prevent overexposure to UVR, especially between 10 am and 3 pm, the best approach is to minimize sun exposure. If outdoor tasks are unavoidable during these hours, taking necessary measures to protect oneself becomes crucial.
Slip on clothing
Not all clothing is protective. To protect against UVR, wear clothing that:
- is dark in colour to inhibit UV light penetration
- has a close weave fabric to block out UVR
- has long sleeves or long trousers and a collar.
Choose a fabric with a high ultraviolet protection factor (UPF). The UPF rating is outlined in the Australian/New Zealand Standard 4399:2017. A fabric's UPF rating is based on how much UVR is transmitted through the fabric, for example, 45+ is excellent protection.
Slap on a hat
Choose a hat that has a close weave and broad brim (10-12 cm) and a flap at the back to shade both the face and back of the neck. If you wear a hardhat, choose one with a flap and/or brim added. Avoid hats lined with white fabric because it will reflect UVR.
Slide on sunglasses
A wrap around style conforming to AS/NZS 1067:2003 is best. It will reduce UVR entering the eye from the side of the face.
Check the UV protection rating. Some sunglasses can be labelled with an eye protection factor (EPF). This is a scale from 1 to 10 which indicates how well a lens blocks UVR. If a lens has been tested, it should have an EPF on the label. Sunglasses with an EPF of 9 or 10 provide the best protection.
Safety glasses should be tinted for outdoor use. Note that polarised lenses reduce glare, which is reflected visible light, making it easier to see on a sunny day; but they don’t increase the EPF.
Slop on sunscreen
Sunscreen is recommended as the last line of defence, after shade, clothing, hats and sunglasses. When choosing a sunscreen, look for:
- sun protection factor (SPF) of 30+ or more
- broad-spectrum (protects against UVA and UVB)
- water-resistance.
Check the use by date because sunscreen can go off. Store it in a cool place, preferably below 30°c. Keep sunscreen where it’s easily accessible and replace it regularly to avoid deterioration. Note that price is not always an indication of quality. Any broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF30+ rating or more will give good sun protection if it’s applied properly. This means:
- applying liberally to clean, dry skin at least 20 minutes before going outside, about a teaspoon per limb and half a teaspoon to the face and neck
- reapplying at least every two hours
- using zinc cream for lips, ears and nose for extra protection
- selecting a gel-based or alcohol-based sunscreen when handling tools
- using a clear lip balm with sunscreen and applying it regularly.
Check your skin regularly
Nearly all skin cancers can be cured if detected and treated early. You often can’t see or feel skin cancers so it’s important that you regularly check, or a medical practitioner regularly checks your skin for changes in shape, colour or size of existing freckles, moles or spots. Cancer Council Queensland has information on how to perform skin self-examinations.
Contact a medical practitioner if you’re concerned about changes to your skin.
For businesses
For employers or persons conducting a business or undertaking (PCBU), it’s your duty to use a risk management approach to protect your workers as outlined in the Work Health and Safety Act 2011.