Australia is renowned for its stunning beaches, outdoor lifestyle, and glorious sunshine. While these attributes contribute to our unique charm, they also pose a significant risk to workers who spend extended hours outdoors. With the harsh Australian sun, it's crucial to prioritise sun safety in the workplace to protect yourself from the harmful effects of UV radiation. In this blog post, we'll explore some tips and strategies for staying sun safe while on the job.

Understanding the Risks:

The sun in Australia can be unforgiving, and its UV radiation is a major contributor to skin cancer. According to Cancer Council Australia, over 2,000 Australians die from skin cancer every year, with many of these cases attributed to workplace sun exposure. It's imperative to recognise the risks associated with prolonged sun exposure and take preventive measures.

Tips for Sun Safety at Work:

1. Wear Protective Clothing:

• Choose clothing that covers your skin, such as long-sleeved shirts, long pants, and wide-brimmed hats.
• Opt for UV-protective clothing when available, as it provides an extra layer of defense against harmful rays.

2. Use Sunscreen:

• Apply sunscreen with a sun protection factor (SPF) of at least 30, and make sure it's broad-spectrum to protect against UVA and UVB rays.
• Reapply sunscreen every two hours, especially if you're sweating or working near water.

3. Seek Shade:

• Whenever possible, take breaks in shaded areas to reduce your sun exposure.

4. Wear Sunglasses:

• Protect your eyes from UV radiation by wearing sunglasses that block 100% of UVA and UVB rays.
• Look for sunglasses with a high eye protection factor (EPF) rating.

5. Stay Hydrated:

• Working in the sun can lead to dehydration, which can make you more susceptible to heat-related illnesses. Drink plenty of water throughout the day.

6. Know the UV Index:

• Be aware of the UV index for your location. Higher UV index values indicate increased sun exposure risk, so plan your outdoor work accordingly.

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