Outdoor workers urged to be sun-safe
As part of October’s Safe Work month, Cancer Council WA has launched a new digital SunSmart campaign.
The campaign urges outdoor workers to use sun protection to reduce the risk of skin cancer, which, for many of them is not often seen as a priority.
“Outdoor workers receive up to 10 times more exposure to ultra-voilet radiation than indoor workers,” South West regional education officer Shenae Norris said. “Their lifetime risk of skin cancer is alarmingly high, and we are hoping this campaign will be a wake-up call for those outdoor workers not taking care of their skin.”
MJB Industries yard manager Nat Risdon understands the dangers associated with too much sun exposure.
“My job is predominately working outside which means I’m exposed to the sun quite a bit,” Mr Risdon said.
“As annoying as sunscreen can often be, it is definitely worth applying if it’s going to save your life.” In Australia, about 95 per cent of melanomas are caused by over exposure to UV radiation.
Ms Norris said being SunSmart was a simple and effective way of reducing your risk of developing skin cancer.
“Slip on protective clothing, slap on a broad-brimmed hat, slop on sunscreen, seek shade and slide on sunglasses,” she said.
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