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Sun Safety

Picture of a woman applying sunscreen

Queensland has the highest incidence of skin cancers and invasive melanomas in the world. Skin damage is caused by over exposure to the sun's ultra violet rays through direct and reflected light. The beach and reef are high risk areas because the ultraviolet rays reflect off water and sand. Given the proximity of Queensland to the Equator, ultraviolet radiation (UVR) is intense all year round, not just in summer.

It is important to practise healthy, sun safe behaviour at work as well as in leisure time. Sun safety relates not only to the wearing of sunscreen. It is important to realise that wearing protective clothing (not just hats!) and providing shade is especially important in preventing damage to the skin.

Skin Cancer

The Cancer Council, Australia
Skin cancer is a real risk especially in a climate that entices people outside. This website provides information about skin cancer including types of skin cancer and what causes skin cancer.

Skin Cancer Prevention and Protection

The Cancer Council, Australia
Protecting your skin from exposure to the sun is the simplest most effective strategy for preventing skin cancer. This website provides information regarding the use of sunscreen, sun protection and babies, eye protection, sun protection during winter, sun protection in the workplace and sun protection merchandise.

Sun Smart
This website provides information on skin cancer and how to protect against it, including frequently asked questions.

Six Simple Steps for Sun Protection

Skin cancer can be prevented by minimising exposure to the sun's ultraviolet radiation (UVR). The Queensland Cancer Fund website identifies six simple steps for skin cancer prevention.

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Sun Protection for Babies and Children

Children's skin is more sensitive to the sun so long term sun damage occurs more easily. Early care reduces the risk of skin cancer later in life. The Better Health Channel website (Victorian State Government) identifies a number of methods to protect children from exposure to the sun.

Sun Protection in the Workplace

People who work outdoors are in one of the highest risk groups for skin cancer. The Department of Industrial Relations website contains brochures which outline a range of methods for employees and employers to reduce exposure to the sun.

Shade Creation

Creation of shade offers protection against excessive sun exposure and aids in the prevention of sunburn, heatstroke, dehydration and skin cancer.

Reference: Shade creation training program is available on CD Rom
Training and Development Branch, Local Government Association of Qld. Inc.

Workplace Health and Safety

The Department of Industrial Relations website has more information on workplace health and safety including advisory standards, brochures and guides.

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References

Queensland Cancer Fund (1999) Personal Protection Information Sheet, QCF : Brisbane.

Queensland Cancer Fund (1997) Working Towards a SunSmart Queensland - a Policy Guide for Organisations, QCF: Brisbane.

Further Information

For further information regarding skin cancer contact your local Doctor

For more infomation about skin cancer prevention visit the Queensland Health Sun Safety website

For further information regarding skin cancer prevention please visit the Queensland Cancer Fund website or contact the Cancer Helpline on 13 11 20.

Checklist

Does a sun safety policy exist?
Does a policy exist in relation to the planting of shade trees?
Are all staff and guests encouraged to wear broad brimmed hats while outdoors?
Are all staff and guests encouraged to use SPF 30+ sunscreen when participating in outdoor activities?
Are all staff and guests encouraged to wear loose long sleeved and long legged clothing that provides UV protection for outdoor activities?
Do swimming pools and their surrounds have shade cover?
Are there reflective surfaces in the grounds that can reflect UV radiation into buildings or covered areas?
Do roofs or other shade structures provide shade when the sun is lower in the sky?
Are staff and guests encouraged to stay out of the sun during peak UVR periods? (eg. through timetabling of activities).

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Last Updated: 29 May 2006
Last Reviewed: 29 May 2006