Three ways to protect workers from UV radiation

July is UV safety awareness month. Every year during the warmer months, employers need to make sure that workers are protected from all hazards inherent to outdoor work.

But what exactly is UV? SunSmart says that Ultraviolet (UV) radiation is a type of energy that is produced by the sun and other artificial sources (such as arc welders or solariums) and that the sun’s UV is the main cause of skin cancer. It can also be the cause of issues such as sunburn, premature aging and eye damage. The American Cancer Society also says that exposure to UV rays can also weaken the immune system.

One of the main problems with UV radiation is that you cannot detect it, so for example you won’t notice any skin damage until it is actually done. SunSmart says that UV is always highest during the middle part of the day – typically between 10am and 2pm.

The American Cancer Society says that UV radiation is divided into three main groups: UVA, UVB and UVC. UVA rays have the least energy among UV rays, though it can still cause damage. UVB rays have slightly more energy than UVA rays, and are thought to cause most skin cancers. UVC rays have the most energy, though they are not normally a risk factor for skin cancer. Nevertheless, the National Toxicology Program (NTP) has determined that all three rays are reasonably anticipated to be human carcinogens.

There are a few simple things that employers and safety practitioners can do to ensure that workers are protected from the dangers of UV radiation.

First of all, where possible, workplaces should make sure that workers are able to work in the shade – or have enough breaks during the day where they can take shelter in the shade. If this is feasible, employers can also think about moving those workers indoors to do their tasks. Nevertheless, most outdoor work – as is implied in the name – has to take place in some capacity outdoors (think of those working in forestry for example, or in agriculture).

But making sure that workers have access to shade, especially during the middle part of the day when UV radiation is highest, is a good first step.

Secondly, workers should have access to the appropriate protective gear. It is recommended that workers who are at risk of being exposed to UV rays should wear clothing that is light-coloured because it reflects most of the visible wavelengths (and absorbs less heat). Workers should also be provided with (or asked to wear) clothing that covers arms and legs as much as possible to protect the skin from the potential dangers of UV exposure. Certain clothes with a high Ultraviolet Protection Factor (UPF) also exist on the market.

On that note, workers should also wear a hat with a wide brim to protect the face and neck from UV rays – and also protect eyes from potential damage. And on the topic of eyes, workplaces should provide workers with the appropriate eye protection. For example, sunglasses or eye goggles which are specifically treated for UV rays.

Lastly, to protect skin that is not able to be covered by protective clothing, workers should be encouraged to wear sunscreen. Workers should use a broad-spectrum sunscreen that has a Sun Protection Factor (SPF) of at least 30+. Sunscreen should also be applied every few hours (as it can come off with sweat or water for example).