Be SunSmart when working outdoors

Outdoor workers are reminded to be SunSmart to avoid skin cancer as new research shows high rates of sunburn among people who work outdoors. 63% of survey respondents reported sunburn experiences as part of an average working year, with farmers significantly more likely than construction workers to report being sunburnt.

The HSE National Cancer Control Programme (NCCP) and Healthy Ireland advise if you work outdoors, you are exposed to 2-3 times more UV radiation from the sun than people who work indoors. Putting you at high risk of developing skin cancer, the most common form of cancer in Ireland, with over 11,000 cases annually.

Gearóid O Súilleabháin, an outdoor worker from Dublin, who spends about half his time working outdoors, explains:
“When I first noticed the mark on my arm, it was like I had scraped it off a concrete wall.  After a while I noticed that it was not healing. My GP referred me to Tallaght University Hospital to have it checked. I was diagnosed with having a melanoma skin cancer on my arm at age 55. After my diagnosis, I realised the importance of protecting skin from UV rays.”

New research by the University of Galway examining sun exposure among Irish construction and agricultural workers have highlighted that although levels of sun-protective training were high, reported sun protective behaviours could be improved.

Outlining some research findings, Dr Victoria Hogan, from University of Galway says:
“Our research indicates room for improvement around protective behaviours towards sun exposure among outdoor workers, with a high rate of sunburn reported and lower rates of sunscreen application than in the general population, therefore, these areas warrant attention by both employers and employees. Addressing perceived barriers to sun protective behaviour (e.g. time consuming, interferes with work) that may impede uptake of preventative measures by workers is also crucial going forward. Consultation with workers in relation to the types of sun protective PPE and sunscreen may help to enhance uptake.”

The importance of sun protection for outdoor workers remains critical. Do not just wait for hot and sunny days to use sun protection – UV from the sun is damaging, even on cool, cloudy days. Protect skin by being SunSmart as part of daily routine from April to September in Ireland. Outdoor workers can significantly reduce the risk of skin cancer and sun damage with proper education and preventive measures.

Dr Breeda Neville, Specialist in Public Health, NCCP, HSE, says: “Outdoor workers need to protect themselves by following the SunSmart steps, and employers should be aware of their responsibility to protect their employees. Employers can also reinforce the SunSmart message by providing employee education to workers about the dangers of UV radiation and the importance of sun protection.” 

The Healthy Ireland SunSmart steps shows how outdoor workers can protect their skin from the sun’s UV rays and reduce their risk of developing skin cancer.

• Slip on clothing that covers your skin such as, long sleeves, collared t-shirts
• Slop on sunscreen. Use sunscreen SPF minimum 30 or higher. Apply 20 minutes before going outside and re-apply every two hours – more often if sweating.
• Slap on a wide brimmed hat, hard hat with a brim and use a neck flap.
• Seek shade, especially if outdoors between 11am to 3pm when UV rays are at their strongest. If possible schedule outdoor work before 11am or after 3pm.
• Slide on wraparound sunglasses.

Paul Darby, working as a handyman and roofer from Donegal, was diagnosed with having a melanoma skin cancer on his ear at age 33. Paul adds: “My message to anyone listening is to know what your skin normally looks like, and check your skin and moles regularly for changes as this will help you spot a possible melanoma at the earliest possible stage. Contact your GP if you notice any changes to your skin that are causing you concern.”

For more information and to learn how to protect yourself this summer visit the SunSmart hub and check out #SunSmart on social media.