Sunlight



A study by Imperial College London, commissioned by the Institute of Occupational Safety and Health (IOSH), reported that skin cancers caused by sun exposure at work are killing nearly 50 workers every year. The research gives the first full picture of the “skin cancer burden” on those working outdoors in industries including construction, agriculture, leisure and entertainment. It also found that 240 new cases are being registered each year.



A separate study, also commissioned by IOSH, found a lack of awareness of the risks of solar or ultra violet (UV) radiation in construction – the industry hardest hit by the disease. The University of Nottingham study into work attitudes to sun safety found that two-thirds of construction workers working outside for an average of nearly seven hours a day thought that they were not at risk, or were unsure about the risks. More than half (59%) reported having sunburn, a major contributor to skin cancer, at least once a year. And the research found a “macho culture” in parts of the industry and misconceptions about the risk in the UK climate.



IOSH called on employers to develop “sun safety strategies” that include regular updates on the ultra violet (UV) index from weather forecasts, minimising sun exposure in the middle of the day and asking employees to wear long-sleeved, loose-fitting tops and trousers.