News Release
N.W.H.U.

If you work outdoors, you have a higher risk of developing skin cancer because you are regularly exposed to the sun for longer periods of time. Often this exposure happens during those times of day when the sun’s ultraviolet rays are at their strongest, between 12 pm and 2 pm.
The Northwestern Health Unit is focusing on sun safety for outdoor workers during its 2008 Sun Safety Awareness Campaign. Outdoor workers need to be aware that skin cancer is the most common type of cancer in Canada, and the main cause is exposure to the ultraviolet rays (UVR) from the sun. Not only do direct UV rays from the sun cause skin damage but the reflection off surfaces such as water, sand, rocks, cement and pavement increases the strength of the UVR.
Fortunately, outdoor workers can reduce their risk by:
Trying to limit the amount of time that they work outdoors in the direct sunlight, particularly between 11 am and 4 pm.
Seeking shade from buildings, trees and canopies as much as possible especially during lunch and coffee breaks.
Covering up as much exposed skin as possible, making sure that clothing is loose and comfortable.
Wearing a wide-brimmed hat or hard hat with a neck flap and visor.
Applying sunscreen and lip screen with SPF 30 to exposed skin areas before going outside and re-applying every 2 hours or more frequently if perspiring.
Joanne Peacock, Health Promoter with the Northwestern Health Unit, says “The good news is that skin cancer is largely preventable. Employers can help protect outdoor workers by developing and implementing a sun safety policy.”
For more information on sun protective measures for outdoor workers contact your local Northwestern Health Unit office or visit HYPERLINK “http://www.nwohealthworks.org” www.nwohealthworks.org.