01 June 2023

Be Sun Smart

Farmers are one of the highest risk groups for skin cancer. Overexposure to UV can cause sunburn, skin and eye damage and skin cancer.

With the warm weater we are experiencing it is important to take lots of drinks, stay indoors during periods of high temperatures and avoid exposure to the damaging effects of UV radiation from the sun.

HSE SunSmart campaign

The HSE SunSmart campaign provides information and advice on how to protect yourself and others from the dangers of exposure to the suns UV rays.

If you work outdoors you are exposed to 2-3 times the amount of UV radiation compared with someone who works indoors, so have a higher risk of developing skin cancer. Exposure to UV damage is irreversible, permanent and cumulative with each exposure. Review your UV exposure – how long are you outside for and how many days of the week?

When the UV index is above 3 you need to protect your skin, even if it is cloudy. UV from the sun is strongest between 11am and 3pm – plan for this in your daily schedule of work if possible and try to take lunch breaks or work in the shade during this time. UV is highest between April and September. You can check the UV index on the Met Eireann website.

Key Actions to take:

• Use protective clothing that covers your exposed skin such as long sleeved, collared shirts, broad brimmed hats and sun glasses.
• Apply broad spectrum, water resistant SPF of 30 or higher and reapply throughout the day.
• Keep an eye on UV levels- you can check UV levels on the Met Eireann website.
• Use shade where possible and take breaks in the shade.
• Check your skin regularly – contact GP if you notice a lump or discoloured patch on the skin, a new growth or a sore that does not heal in a few weeks, a spot or sore that itches, hurts, crusts, scabs or bleeds, constant skin ulcers with no other explanation for their cause and new or changing moles.

Learn more about the SunSmart campaign here