Outdoor workers spend significant time under the sun, making them one of the highest-risk groups for skin cancer. Unlike the general population, they are exposed to cumulative, long-term ultraviolet (UV) radiation, which significantly increases their risk of developing basal cell carcinoma (BCC) and squamous cell carcinoma (SCC)​.

This article explores why outdoor workers face a higher risk of skin cancer, effective sun protection strategies, and the responsibilities of employers in promoting sun safety.

Why Outdoor Workers Face a Higher Risk of Skin Cancer

1. Prolonged UV Exposure

Outdoor workers receive up to 10 times more UV radiation annually than indoor workers​.

🔹 Long-term, daily sun exposure increases the risk of SCC and actinic keratosis.
🔹 Intermittent, intense sun exposure (e.g., construction workers removing shirts at midday) increases the risk of melanoma.

2. Reflection from Surfaces

• Water, sand, concrete, and metal reflect UV rays, increasing exposure.
• Workers in coastal, snow-covered, or high-altitude environments face even greater risks.

3. Lack of Awareness and Protection

• Many outdoor workers underestimate their risk and do not apply sunscreen correctly.
• Work schedules often coincide with peak UV radiation hours (10 AM – 4 PM)​.

4. Increased Risk of Premature Ageing and Ocular Damage

• Chronic UV exposure leads to wrinkles, leathery skin, and age spots.
• Eye damage (cataracts, pterygium, and ocular melanoma) is common in workers without UV-protective eyewear​.

Essential Sun Protection Strategies for Prolonged UV Exposure

1. Daily Sunscreen Application (SPF 30+)

🔹 Use a broad-spectrum SPF 30+ sunscreen that protects against both UVA and UVB.
🔹 Apply generously to exposed skin 20 minutes before working outside.
🔹 Reapply every 2 hours, or more frequently if sweating​.

💡 Pro Tip: Choose water-resistant, sweat-proof sunscreens for longer protection.

2. Wear Protective Clothing and Accessories

✔️ Long-sleeved shirts and trousers made from UPF-rated fabric.
✔️ Wide-brimmed hats (7 cm or more) for face and neck protection.
✔️ UV-blocking sunglasses (look for wraparound styles that meet Australian UV protection standards).

💡 Best Fabrics:

• Densely woven fabrics (e.g., polyester blends, denim) offer the best UV protection.
• Lighter fabrics (e.g., cotton) provide less UV protection but can be improved with UPF treatments​.

3. Work in the Shade Whenever Possible

✔️ Take breaks in shaded areas to reduce cumulative UV exposure.
✔️ Use temporary shade structures like tarps or umbrellas when working outdoors​.

4. Hydrate and Take Care of Your Skin

🔹 Drink plenty of water to prevent heat-related illnesses.
🔹 Use moisturisers with antioxidants (Vitamin C & E) to repair sun damage.

Best Times to Work Outdoors to Minimise UV Exposure

1. Avoid Peak UV Hours (10 AM – 4 PM)

✔️ Whenever possible, schedule outdoor tasks in the early morning or late afternoon.
✔️ If working at peak hours, maximise protective measures (sunscreen, shade, protective clothing)​.

2. Use the Shadow Rule

💡 If your shadow is shorter than you, UV exposure is at its highest.

✔️ Try to plan tasks around longer shadow periods (early morning, late afternoon).

Employer Responsibilities in Promoting Sun Safety

Employers must provide a safe work environment by implementing sun protection measures​.

1. Provide and Enforce Sun Protection Measures

✔️ Supply broad-spectrum sunscreen and encourage its regular use.
✔️ Provide shaded work areas whenever possible.
✔️ Supply UV-protective clothing, sunglasses, and wide-brimmed hats.

2. Educate Workers on Skin Cancer Risks

✔️ Conduct annual sun safety training for outdoor workers.
✔️ Encourage self-examinations and regular skin checks​.

3. Implement Workplace Sun Safety Policies

✔️ Adjust work schedules to avoid peak UV hours.
✔️ Include UV exposure protection in workplace health and safety guidelines.
✔️ Encourage workers to report any suspicious skin changes.

Final Thoughts: Protecting Outdoor Workers from Skin Cancer

Outdoor workers are at a significantly higher risk of developing skin cancer due to prolonged UV exposure. Employers and workers alike must take proactive steps to reduce this risk.

✔️ Wear sunscreen daily and reapply every 2 hours.
✔️ Use UV-protective clothing, hats, and sunglasses.
✔️ Take breaks in the shade and avoid peak UV hours.
✔️ Encourage workplace sun safety policies.
✔️ Schedule regular skin checks with a dermatologist.

📢 Book a Full Skin Check today at ISO Skin Cancer Clinic to stay protected! 🌞​.