WH&S – watch that winter sun
Sunburn is not something that only happens in the summer months. It’s important to slip, slop, slap even in winter.
Every year more than 10,000 Australians are treated for melanoma and some of these people die from this disease. Outdoor workers have a higher chance of being one of these statistics.
The good news is that skin cancer is preventable and all it requires is a little more vigilance in your slip slap slop routine.
Here are some guidelines by the Cancer Council Australia:
- Slip-on sun-protective clothing that covers as much skin as possible;
- Slop on a broad spectrum, water resistantSPF30+ sunscreen. Put it on 20 minutes before you go outdoors and every two hours afterwards. Sunscreen should never be used to extend the time you spend in the sun;
- Slap on a hat that protects your face, head, neck and ears;
- Seek shade and find ways to reduce the time spent in the sun;
- Slide on some sunglasses that meet Australian Standards.
Source: Cancer Council Australia
Contact our WH&S Manager for more information. Don’t forget 1300apprentice supplies sunscreen as part of your PPE kit. If you run out and need more phone your field officer.
