Download DUTY OF CARE

Sun Protection HSI/049
Health & Safety Information Sheet
Exposure to ultraviolet (UV) radiation from the sun can cause skin damage including sunburn,
blistering, skin ageing and in the long term can lead to skin cancer. Skin cancer is the most
common form of cancer in the UK, with over 40 000 new cases diagnosed each year.
Sunburn is the damaging effect on the skin of the ultraviolet light contained in sunlight (UV). It
is like any other kind of burn except that it happens more slowly. UV radiation should be
considered an occupational hazard for people who work outdoors.
Who is at risk?
People with pale skin are most at risk of skin damage, especially those with fair or red hair,
with a lot of freckles or with a family history of skin cancer. People with brown or black skin
are at low risk, but people of all skin colours can suffer from overheating and dehydration.
Sunburn
Sunburn is the damaging effect on the skin of the ultraviolet light contained in sunlight (UV). It
is like any other kind of burn except that it happens more slowly. Regular exposure to the sun
over many years can cause ‘photoaging’ (the skin becomes leathery and wrinkled) and can
also increase the risk of skin cancers occurring. The symptoms are
Mildly reddish to severely reddish/purple skin discolouration
Flaking or peeling skin that reveals a red under layer
Blistered skin accompanied with chills, fever, sickness or dehydration.
Painful and irritating eyes
Few cases of sunburn require medical care and for most treatment at home can alleviate
symptoms (after sun cream, calamine lotion etc). If the burn is very painful or widespread, a
doctor may prescribe oral steroids to relieve the discomfort. Sometime if the burn is extremely
severe, bed rest and possible hospitalization is necessary. No treatment can undo the
damage cause by prolonged exposure to the sun.
Protecting staff
Encouraging sun protection will result in fewer absence days through sunburn, a healthier and
better-informed workforce, and reduced risk to staff of serious illness from long-term sun
exposure. To protect staff:
Include sun protection advice in routine health and safety training;
1
Encourage staff to keep covered up during the summer months - especially at lunch time
when the sun is at its hottest. They can cover up with a long-sleeved shirt, and a hat with a
brim or flap that protects the ears and neck;
Encourage staff to use sunscreen of at least SPF (Sun Protection Factor) 15 on any part of
the body they can’t cover up and to apply it as directed on the product. They might prefer
to use a spray or an alcohol-based (non-greasy) sunscreen;
encourage staff to take their breaks in the shade, if possible, rather than staying out in the
sun
Consider your scheduling of work to minimise exposure;
Encourage workers to drink plenty of water to avoid dehydration;
keep staff informed about the dangers of sun exposure; and
Encourage Staff to check their skin regularly for unusual spots or moles that change size,
shape or colour and to seek medical advice promptly if they find anything that causes them
concern.
Sun protection tips
Wear loose fitting clothes and a broad brimmed hat when in the sun.
Keep your top on. Clothing forms a barrier to the sun's harmful rays- especially tightly
woven fabrics, wear shoes to protect your feet.
Wear a hat with a brim or flap that covers the back of neck and ears- avoiding sunburn;
Stay in the shade, whenever possible, especially at lunchtime;
Use a high factor sunscreen of at least factor SPF 15 on exposed skin. Apply as directed
on the product.
Drink plenty of water to avoid dehydration.
Check your skin regularly for unusual spots or moles which may have changed. See your
GP immediately if you see anything that is changed in shape, size, colour, itching or
bleeding.
Wear sunglasses to protect your eyes.
Title: Sun Protection
Doc No: HSI/049
Creation date: Apr 07
Last review: Jul 11
Once printed this document is no longer controlled
Owner: HST
Next Review: July 13
Author: JJ/SS
Version No: 02
2