Working in the Sun

Exposure to the sun can cause skin damage including sunburn, blistering and skin ageing. In the long term can lead to an increased risk of skin cancer. Skin cancer is one of the most common forms of cancer in the UK with over 50,000 new cases every year. Sun protection is important and people need to realise that sunburnt skin is damaged skin. A suntan is not a sign of good health.

Hot and humid conditions, coupled with physically demanding work, can also lead to heat stress. (See guidance on working in excessive temperatures

Managers responsible for employees who are required to work in the sun need to consider the risks as part of their risk assessment.

Unnecessary exposure can be avoided by:

• Wearing long sleeve shirts or loose clothing with a close weave;
• Wearing hats with a wide brim;
• Taking more frequent rest breaks,
• Taking breaks in the shade whenever possible;
• Scheduling work to cooler times of the day;
• Where possible, providing shade where work tasks are being undertaken.

For more information on safety while working or relaxing in the sun look at these websites:

HSE: Advice for employees and managers on outdoor working:
www.hse.gov.uk/temperature/information/outdoor.htm

Sunsmart: the UK’s national skin cancer prevention campaign:
http://www.cancerresearchuk.org/sunsmart