Businesses urged to back safe sun policies

With the current scorching temperatures, manual workers are often seen working without their shirts, soaking up the sun.

However, a new survey by Croner reveals that 80% of businesses are worried about the risk to employees of skin cancer from sun exposure, but in reality, few are doing anything about it.

Croner, a leading supplier of business information, advice and support, carried out a poll which asked health and safety professionals if employers should provide sunscreen for outdoor workers. The majority (80%) of respondents said yes, with only 17% saying no and 3% unsure.

Skin cancer, caused by exposure to UV radiation from the sun, is the most common cancer in the UK with 40,000 new cases diagnosed every year, causing 2,500 deaths.

People who work outdoors are in one of the highest risk groups for skin cancer, but under current health and safety regulations, it is not compulsory for employers to advise their employees on sun protection or provide sunscreen.

Radiation from the sun should be considered an occupational hazard and Croner advises business that they should:

• keep workers informed about the dangers of sun exposure by including sun protection advice in routine health and safety training
• take practical measures such as placing water and rest points in the shade, and encouraging workers to take their breaks in the shade
• encourage workers to keep their shirts on at work and apply sunscreen of at least SPF15 to exposed areas
• encourage workers to drink plenty of water
• educate workers about the signs of skin cancer and tell them to see their doctor if they discover any

Trevor Davies, health and safety expert at Croner, added: "If employers take responsible action over sun safety, they should have fewer absence days through sunburn and a reduced risk of cancer to their employees from long-term sun exposure."

(CL)