Why worry about sun protection at work?

Sun protection at work is particularly important for outdoor workers, because they are exposed to high levels of UV (ultraviolet) radiation from the sun for long periods. Too much sun damages the skin, and can lead to skin cancer, including melanoma.

Skin cancer in New Zealand

New Zealand has one of the highest rates of melanoma in the world and skin cancer is New Zealand's most common cancer. People with fair skin are especially at risk, but all skin types can be damaged by exposure to UV radiation. Damage is permanent and increases with each exposure. Damage can also be caused to the eyes.

When is UV radiation highest?

UV radiation levels are high to extreme in New Zealand from the start of September to the end of March, especially between 11am and 4pm. However, UV radiation from the sun is not related to heat or high temperatures and you can still get sunburned on a cool or cloudy day.

Workers and the sun

By law, your employer must take all practicable steps to protect your health and safety (Health and Safety in Employment Act 1992). If you work outdoors, this includes protection from injury by the sun.

This means your employer (in consultation with you) should:

• Aim to minimise the amount of time you spend in the sun, where possible (eg, by rotating work patterns, rescheduling work, increasing shade).
• Provide necessary sun protection (eg, hats, clothing).
• Give you information and training on sun safety.

If you work outdoors and your workplace does not offer any sun protection measures, raise the issue with your health and safety representative or manager.

By law you should:

• Cooperate with the sun protection measures your employer has put in place.  

If you are self-employed, it is in your best interests to look after yourself and follow the sun protection guidelines given below.

Preventive measures

There are many ways to protect yourself from the sun when working outside. Talk to your employer about these.

• Avoid being outside when ultraviolet (UV) radiation levels are high.
• Reorganise work times where possible so that outdoor tasks are done early in the morning or in the late afternoon.
• Work with your colleagues to share and rotate tasks that involve direct sun exposure.
• Use trees, buildings and other temporary shelter (eg, awnings, umbrellas) for shade.
• Use shade for rest and meal breaks.
• Drink plenty of cool water.

Five steps for sun protection

Protect yourself in 5 simple steps:

• Slip into some shade - reduce your exposure to the sun by working in shaded areas and, whenever possible, take breaks in the shade.
• Slip on sun-protective clothing - choose long pants and a long-sleeved, collared shirt.
• Slap on a hat - wear a hat that protects your head, face, neck and ears. Choose a hat with a broad brim (at least 7.5cm) or a bucket-style hat. Use a brim attachment with a back flap with a hard hat or helmet.
• Slop sunscreen on all exposed skin - choose broad spectrum, SPF30+ suncreen. Apply at least 15 minutes before going outside. Reapply at least every two hours.
• Wrap on some sunglasses - wear close-fitting, wrap-around styles. Look for the label AS/NZS 1067:2003.

Early detection is important

• Look at your skin regularly so you know what it usually looks like. A good way to remember is to check your skin at each change of season.
• See your doctor as soon as possible if you notice a spot, freckle or mole that has changed in size, shape, colour or texture.
• Discuss any concerns about your skin, or skin cancer, with your doctor.

Related topics

Also see Skin self-examination and Melanoma and Sun safety - fact v fiction

Original material provided by the Cancer Society of New Zealand, 2009. Edited by everybody, August 2010.