Introduction
Sun protection is crucial for workers who spend long hours outdoors. Whether you’re working in construction, agriculture, or any other outdoor industry, taking proactive steps to protect your skin can prevent serious health risks, including sunburns, premature aging, and skin cancer.
Hazards of Working in the Sun
When working in the sun, workers can be exposed to many hazards, including:
- Eye Damage – Long-term, unprotected exposure to ultraviolet light from the sun can damage the retina
- Heat Exhaustion – Heat exhaustion is the body’s response to excessive loss of water and salt, usually through excessive sweating
- Heat Stroke – If heat exhaustion is left untreated, it can lead to heat stroke, which is the most serious heat-related illness and can be life-threatening
- Sunburns – Sunburns are widely recognized as one of the most common symptoms of over-exposure
- Heat Rash – A heat rash is a skin irritation that develops when the sweat ducts become blocked, trapping perspiration beneath the skin
- And, Skin Cancer – Long-term exposure to the sun’s ultraviolet radiation can cause skin cancer
Skin Cancer
Skin cancer is the most common type of cancer in the United States, with ultraviolet (UV) rays from the sun being the leading cause. There are 3 primary types of skin cancer, including:
- Melanoma – Least common but most dangerous form of skin cancer. It can spread to other parts of the body and causes 75% of all skin cancer deaths
- Squamous Cell Carcinoma (SCC) – This is not as dangerous as melanoma but can spread to other parts of the body
- And, Basal Cell Carcinoma (BCC) – The most common type of skin cancer and the least dangerous
It’s essential to regularly monitor your skin for any unusual moles or markings. The appearance of a new moles or lesion, or changes to an existing one, could be a sign of skin cancer.
Aside from skin cancer, exposure to the sun can cause skin conditions, such as:
- Wrinkles
- Freckles
- Discolored skin
- And, benign tumors
Heat-Related Illnesses
If workers fail to recognize the early signs of heat-related illness, the consequences can be fatal. Early signs of heat-related illnesses may vary depending on the type of heat illness, such as:
- Heat Cramps – Heat cramps are typically the first symptom. If workers do not replace the fluids and salts they lose through sweating, they may experience muscle pain or spasms
- Heat Exhaustion – If heat cramps are not treated, heat exhaustion may follow. Symptoms may include fatigue, breath shortness, clammy skin, and more
- And, Heat Stroke – This is the most serious stage of heat stress. Symptoms include dizziness and confusion, rapid pulse, convulsions, and more
To prevent heat-related illnesses:
- Perform demanding job tasks during the cooler parts of the day
- Drink water or electrolytes; 8 ounces every 15 minutes
- Take frequent breaks in an air-conditioned or shaded area
- Wear loose, lightweight clothes
- And, use the buddy system to watch for signs of heat stress
Preventing Sun Exposure
While sun exposure may be unavoidable, workers can take important safety precautions to minimize its harmful effects, including:
- Check weather conditions prior to work and dress accordingly
- Apply SPF 30 sunscreen to all exposed areas of the skin
- Wear clothing that covers as much skin as possible
- Wear a board-brimmed hat with ear and neck protection
- Wear sunglasses that provide UV protection
- Stay hydrated; drink beverages with electrolytes
- And, seek shade whenever possible
Resources
The CDC provides additional information on sun exposure at work.
The EPA also provides general sun safety tips.
Conclusion
Sun protection is an essential part of ensuring worker safety, especially those who spend long hours outdoors. By adopting effective strategies, workers can significantly reduce their risk of sun-related health issues.