Outdoor Work

Repeated exposure to Ultraviolet radiation in sunlight may cause changes in the skin and eventually skin cancer. Working outdoors in the middle of the day, (11.00hrs to 15.00hrs) particularly in those with fair skin, increases the risk of such problems.

Employers must undertake a risk assessment of such work and reduce the risk to their workers from UV radiation as far as is reasonably practicable. Sensible controls that should be considered include:

  • Informing your outdoor workers of the risks associated with outdoor work. There are useful resources to do this at:

           Sunsmart (CRUK)

           Employee information sheet

  • Alteration of duties to avoid work outdoors between 11.00 and 15.00 in the summer months.

  • The employer should encourage use of peaked hats, long-sleeved shirts and high factor (5-star UVA) sun cream for any employee undertaking such work.
  • Instruct them to report any changes in their skin to their general practitioner promptly