Working in the sun safely

Health and Social Wellbeing Improvement
Working in the sun safely

With the recent spell of good weather, the Public Health Agency (PHA) and Cancer Focus Northern Ireland are reminding people who work outdoors to ensure that they protect themselves from skin damage that may result from sun exposure.

Sun protection was recently the focus of an event at Greenmount College led by PHA and Cancer Focus NI, with representatives from a diverse range of outdoor occupations.

Dr Miriam McCarthy, Consultant in Public Health Medicine with the PHA, said: “Everyone is at risk of sun damage, but certain groups such as people who spend a significant amount of time working outdoors are particularly at risk. We therefore are encouraged that many local employers and representatives are keen to work with us to promote sun safety in their organisations.”

Farmers, builders, grounds staff and postal workers are just some of the people at higher risk of sun damage due to the length of time they spend working outdoors.

Event attendee Harry Wade, Health & Safety Representative at Royal Mail, was able to bring back key care in the sun messages to implement in his workplace and said: “The event improved my knowledge and awareness of sun safety issues considerably. Everyone who works outdoors needs to think about sun protection, even on cooler, breezy days.”

There are a number of steps that will protect against the sun’s harmful rays when working outdoors:

  • Wear a long sleeved top, sunglasses and a hat with a brim or flap that protects the ears and neck.
  • On exposed skin use sunscreen with a minimum SPF of 15 for UVB protection, and 4 star for UVA protection. Extra care and a higher SPF factor may be needed if you have paler or freckled skin. Apply liberally 30 minutes before going out in the sun and re-apply at least every two hours.
  • Be sure to cover areas which are sometimes missed, such as the lips, ears, around the eyes, neck, scalp and backs of hands.
  • Where possible take your breaks in the shade especially when the sun is at its strongest – generally 11am to 3pm.

Marbeth Ferguson, Skin Cancer Prevention Co-ordinator with Cancer Focus NI, said: “The damage caused by the sun can accumulate over time and may lead to skin cancer. So it is important to check your skin regularly for any unusual moles or spots. If you notice any changes to a mole or patch of normal skin, tell your doctor who may refer you to a dermatologist.”

For further information on sun safety when working outdoors see www.careinthesun.org. If you are concerned about skin cancer you can also call the Cancer Focus NI free information and support helpline on 0800 783 3339 or email one of the charity’s nurses on helpline@cancerfocusni.org.