Guidance for protection from UV radiation

ASCC chairman Bill Scales AO and Cancer Council Australia’s National Skin Cancer Committee chairman Craig Sinclair jointly announced the release of the Guidance Note for the Protection of Workers from the Ultraviolet Radiation in Sunlight, providing a practical guide on how to assess and minimise exposure to solar UV radiation at work.

Scales encouraged all employers and employees in all industries to take advantage of this practical resource: “Australia has the highest rate of skin cancer in the world. It is every Australian’s right to be safe at work and this includes working outdoors when UV radiation levels are high. I urge all workplaces and industries which have outdoor workers to utilise this newly updated guide and to take steps to protect workers from UV radiation in sunlight.

“Adopting safer work practices when working outdoors not only has a positive impact on employees but can also lead to significantly reduced organisational costs and economic costs. Everybody should be SunSmart when at work.”

Sinclair added that at least two in three Australians will be diagnosed with skin cancer before the age of 70: “While the current figures for skin cancer are extremely concerning, the use of this guide can help Australians minimise the risk of UV exposure when at work.

“As we approach the summer season, there is no better time than now to be reminded of the importance of using sun protection while working outdoors. There is more to sun protection than sunscreen. Exposure to UV radiation can occur on cloudy days. It is important that organisations and individuals be aware of the risks associated with working in the sunlight and take measures to ensure they are safe. These measures include seeking shade, slipping on sun-protective work clothing, slapping on a hat, sliding on sunglasses and slopping on SPF 30+ sunscreen.”

The document is available from www.ascc.gov.au.