UV Awareness for Outdoor Workers: Protect Your Skin and Health from Harmful Sun Exposure

When we think of workplace hazards, our minds often go to machinery, slips, trips, or heavy lifting. But for outdoor workers, there’s another invisible risk that can be just as harmful – ultraviolet (UV) radiation from the sun.

Ultraviolet (UV) radiation from the sun is a serious health risk for outdoor workers. Whether you work in construction, farming, gardening, or public services, long hours in the sun can cause skin damage, eye problems, and increase your risk of skin cancer.

What is UV Radiation and How Does It Affect Your Health?

UV radiation is an invisible energy from sunlight that damages skin and eyes. There are two main types:

• UVA rays cause premature skin ageing and long-term damage.
• UVB rays cause sunburn and increase the risk of skin cancer.

A suntan is actually a sign of skin damage that shows your skin has been harmed by UV rays.

Who is Most at Risk of UV Exposure at Work?

Outdoor workers who spend long hours outside are especially vulnerable to UV radiation. This includes:

• • Construction workers

• • Farm labourers and market gardeners

• • Outdoor activity instructors

• • Public service workers (like postal or refuse collectors)

People with fair or freckled skin, red or fair hair, light eyes, or many moles should be extra cautious. But everyone working outdoors should take sun protection seriously.

Health Risks from Too Much Sun Exposure

Short-term effects include:

• Reddened skin, even mild, signals damage.
• Sunburns can blister and cause peeling.

Long-term effects include:

• Accelerated skin ageing (leathery, wrinkled skin).
• Increased risk of skin cancer is one of the most serious consequences.
• Eye damage, such as cataracts and other vision issues.

Legal and Employer Guidance on Sun Safety

While employers are not legally required to provide sunscreen or sunglasses, the Health and Safety Executive (HSE) strongly recommends including sun safety in health and safety training for outdoor workers. Employers should raise awareness about UV risks and encourage protective behaviours.

Practical Sun Protection Tips for Outdoor Workers

Protect yourself with these simple measures recommended by the HSE:

• Wear long-sleeved, lightweight clothing to cover exposed skin.
• Use a wide-brimmed hat or one with a neck flap to protect your head, ears, and neck.
• Take regular breaks in the shade, especially during peak sun hours (11 am to 3 pm).
• Apply broad-spectrum sunscreen with SPF 15 or higher on all exposed skin. Reapply every 2 hours.
• Drink plenty of water to stay hydrated.
• Wear sunglasses that block 99–100% of UV rays to protect your eyes.
• Check your skin regularly for new or changing moles, and consult a doctor if you notice anything suspicious.

5 Essential Facts to Stay Sun Safe at Work

1. SPF (Sun Protection Factor) measures how well sunscreen protects you from UVB rays. Use SPF 30 or above.
2. Broad-spectrum sunscreens protect against both UVA and UVB rays.
3. Sunglasses should block 99–100% of UV rays — wrap-around or oversized styles offer the best protection.
4. Clothing with a UPF rating guarantees UV protection, but darker, dense fabrics like cotton and denim also help.
5. Darker colours absorb more UV rays than lighter ones, providing better protection.

Why UV Awareness Matters Year-Round

UV radiation isn’t just a summer concern. Harmful rays can penetrate clouds and affect you on cloudy or cool days, even during winter. Protecting your skin and eyes from UV damage should be part of your daily health and safety routine if you work outdoors.

Learn More

UV safety is a critical but often overlooked part of workplace health and safety. Take simple, effective steps to reduce your UV exposure and protect your long-term health.

For more detailed guidance, visit:

• HSE Sun Protection Advice
• Met Office UV Radiation and Health
• Cancer Research UK – Sun and UV

SHOP SUMMER-SAFE

ESSENTIALS

With the recent heatwaves sweeping across the UK, keeping outdoor teams safe in the sun has never been more important.

Every industry faces unique Summer challenges. Whether the team is working outdoors, on the move, or indoors with fluctuating temperatures.

Our Summer-safe page has covered the key products across industries we know will be heavily impacted by the hotter season.

UK | IRE