Outdoor workers and sun exposure

What is the problem?

Too much sunlight is harmful to your skin. A tan is a sign that the skin has been damaged. The damage is caused by ultraviolet (UV) rays in sunlight.

Who is at risk?

If work keeps you outdoors for a long time your skin could be exposed to more sun than is healthy for you. Outdoor workers that could be at risk include farm or construction workers, market gardeners, outdoor activity workers and some public service workers. If you have naturally brown or black skin, you are less at risk of skin cancer, although cases do occur. Therefore, when the sunlight is intense, it would be sensible if you also followed the guidance below to protect yourself. You should take particular care if you have:

• fair or freckled skin that doesn’t tan, or goes red or burns before it tans;
• red or fair hair and light coloured eyes;
• a large number of moles.

What are the harmful effects?

In the short term, even mild reddening of the skin from sun exposure is a sign of damage. Sunburn can blister the skin and make it peel.

Longer term problems can arise. Too much sun speeds up ageing of the skin, making it leathery, mottled and wrinkled. The most serious effect is an increased chance of developing skin cancer.

What can you do to protect yourself?

• Keep your top on.
• Wear a hat with a brim or a flap that covers the ears and the back of the neck.
• Stay in the shade whenever possible, during your breaks and especially at lunch time.
• Use a high factor sunscreen of at least SPF15 on any exposed skin.
• Drink plenty of water to avoid dehydration.
• Check your skin regularly for any unusual moles or spots. See a doctor promptly if you find anything that is changing in shape, size or colour, itching or bleeding.

Where can you get further information?

The following free leaflets have been produced by HSE:

• Keep your top on: Health risks from working in the sun
• Sun protection: Advice for employers of outdoor workers
  

The following website also provides useful information:

• SunSmart: the UK’s national skin cancer prevention campaign