PPE: Sunscreen

In the construction industry, workers are exposed to the elements and require effective sun protection. Construction workers should wear sunscreen to protect themselves from the sun's harsh rays. Sunburns can not only cause discomfort, but also increase the risk of skin cancer in the long run. With proper sun protection, construction workers can reduce their chances of developing serious health issues due to prolonged exposure to UV radiation.

Getting sunburned as an adult significantly increases your risk of developing melanoma. For those of us who work outside and in sun-exposed environments, it’s important to practice sun safety and protect your largest organ, your skin.

Wear Sunscreen

• Applying a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF rating of 30 or higher is essential for protecting against both UVA and UVB rays, as well as reapplying it throughout the day according to product instructions.

• Apply 15 minutes before sun exposure.

• Reapply every 2 hours, if sweating.

• Don’t forget tops of hands, ears and neck.

Did you know?

Sun damage is possible even through the windows in your vehicle.

Truck drivers have a high risk of developing skin cancer.

“Statistically there’s more skin cancers found on the left arms then right arms because that arm is exposed to sun when driving,” said David Ensz, MD, at MercyOne South Sioux City Family Medicine.

This your reminder to apply every day, even if you may not be in the direct sun rays!

Busting Myths

Myth: “My skin has become accustomed to the sun”

Your skin can have some hardening from repeat sun exposure, but it’s not enough to be significant or immune to the sun. You can still get sunburns and damage your skin.

Myth: “It is cloudy, I don’t need sunscreen”

Sun’s rays are strong enough to penetrate through the clouds. You can still get sun damage on cloudy days.

Myth: “Skin cancer isn’t as dangerous as other cancers”

Skin cancer is the most common cancer in the United States. 1 in 5 people will develop skin cancer at some point in their lifetime. When left untreated it can spread to other organs and even cause death

In conclusion, taking the time to put on sunscreen is the best way to ensure you are taking care of your body’s largest organ. Sun exposure is a job hazard that we often overlook but has adverse effects later in life if action is not taken now. Do the right thing-wear sunscreen!