For many industries, working outdoors is unavoidable. From construction and utilities to agriculture, landscaping, local authority services, and logistics, thousands of workers spend long periods exposed to the elements every day. While hot weather often raises concerns about dehydration and heat stress, one of the most significant long-term risks is exposure to the sun’s ultraviolet (UV) radiation.
At Trant O’Meara, we believe in helping to educate our partners in how they can protect their workers from UV exposure is an essential part of all workplace safety strategies.
Why Sun Protection Matters
Outdoor workers can be exposed to significantly higher levels of UV radiation than those working indoors, increasing their risk of developing skin cancer and other sun-related health conditions. In Ireland, skin cancer is the most common form of cancer, with more than 11,000 cases diagnosed each year, and rates continue to rise.
While sunlight plays an important role in maintaining healthy Vitamin D levels, excessive exposure to UV radiation can damage the skin and eyes over time. The effects may not be immediately visible, but repeated exposure can lead to serious health issues, including:
- Non-melanoma skin cancers such as Basal Cell Carcinoma (BCC) and Squamous Cell Carcinoma (SCC)
- Melanoma, the most serious form of skin cancer
- Premature skin ageing
- Eye damage, including cataracts and macular degeneration
Workers in construction, utilities, agriculture, transport, waste management, and other outdoor sectors should be considered at increased risk due to prolonged occupational exposure.
Understanding UV Risk
In Ireland, UV levels are typically highest between 11am and 3pm from April to September. During these hours, workers can be exposed to harmful UV radiation even on cloudy days.
A useful tool for employers and workers is the UV Index, which indicates the strength of UV radiation. When the UV Index reaches 3 or above, protective measures should be implemented to reduce exposure and minimise risk.
Practical Ways to Protect Outdoor Workers
Reducing UV exposure requires a combination of controls rather than relying on a single measure. Employers should incorporate sun safety into workplace risk assessments and daily work planning.
Key protective measures include:
Plan Work Around Peak UV Hours
Where practical, schedule outdoor tasks before 11am or after 3pm when UV levels are lower. Consider rotating workers between outdoor and shaded or indoor areas to reduce prolonged exposure.
Provide Shade
Where fixed shade is unavailable, temporary shelters, canopies, or shaded rest areas can help workers avoid direct sunlight during breaks.
Encourage Protective Clothing
Workers should wear:
- Long-sleeved shirts and trousers where appropriate
- Clothing made from tightly woven fabrics
- Collared shirts to protect the neck
- Wide-brimmed hats or hard hat attachments designed for sun protection
Supply High-Quality Sunscreen
Broad-spectrum sunscreen that protects against both UVA and UVB rays should be readily available. An SPF 30+ sunscreen is recommended and should be reapplied regularly throughout the day, especially during hot weather.
Protect the Eyes
UV exposure can also damage eyesight over time. Workers should wear safety sunglasses that provide 100% UVA and UVB protection, particularly in environments where sunlight reflects off water, glass, metal, or other bright surfaces. Wrap-around designs offer the highest level of protection.
Support Hydration
Heat and sunlight often go hand in hand. Employers should provide easy access to fresh drinking water and encourage workers to take regular hydration breaks throughout the day.
Follow the SunSmart 5 S’s
A simple way to remember sun safety is the SunSmart 5 S’s:
- Slip on clothing that covers your skin.
- Slop on SPF 30+ sunscreen.
- Slap on a wide-brimmed hat.
- Seek shade whenever possible.
- Slide on UV-protective sunglasses.
When followed consistently, these simple precautions can significantly reduce the risk of long-term UV damage.
Employer Responsibilities
Under Irish health and safety legislation, employers are required to assess workplace risks and implement appropriate control measures to protect employees. This includes protecting workers from environmental conditions that may adversely affect their health and safety, including excessive sun exposure.
By incorporating UV protection into workplace safety programmes, employers can help safeguard employee wellbeing, reduce health risks, and promote a stronger safety culture across their organisation.
Need advice on protecting outdoor workers? Contact the Trant O’Meara team today to discuss the right safety solutions for your workplace.
