Protecting your skin is an easy task to do. Three easy tips can be taken to prevent exposure to ultraviolet radiation. These tips include:

1. Wear Sunscreen

• Getting sunburn should be avoided. Always wear sunscreen while working outside.
• Water, snow, sand, concrete, and metal can reflect and intensify ultraviolet radiation and increase the chances of exposure and getting sunburned.
• The use of water-resistant sunscreen with a sun protection factor (SPF) of 30 or greater is recommended
• Reapply the sunscreen every two hours, or after sweating an excessive amount.

2. Wear Protective Clothing

• Wear long sleeved shirts and pants that are tightly woven and loose fitting.
• Protect your neck with a cloth that attaches to the hard hat.
• Asking your employer for safety glasses that will provide protection against harmful ultraviolet radiations.

3. Stay in the Shade

• If it is possible to do, try to complete outdoor work earlier in the day, or later in the day to avoid sun exposure.
• While taking breaks, avoid the sun as much as possible.
• If possible, construct temporary shade for employees in the area that work is being conducted.

Awareness needs to be spread on skin cancer. Anyone can develop skin cancer, no matter what tone of skin you have. Women tend to develop melanoma more than men prior to the age of 50. After the age of 65, the chances for men to develop melanoma increases. Melanoma is the most common type of cancer for people who are younger than 30. The chances to develop the cancer double for those who have suffered from five or more sunburns.

For more Occupational Health and Safety tips, visit our Occupational Health division of Amerisafe Group.

Author: Michael Thompson, Safety Intern