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94 355-BQD-01-IAAP © 2024, Workplace Safety & Prevention Services (WSPS) | 1 877 494 WSPS (9777) | WSPS.CA Landscape Ontario – Workplace Safety Tailgate Talks SUN EXPOSURE Personal Protective Equipment What are some of the hazards of over exposure to the sun? What can you do to lessen those hazards? Repeated daily exposure to the sun over a number of years increases an individual's risk of developing a number of health problems such as skin cancer. Take necessary precau�ons to protect yourself against the sun. Prevention Points Outdoor workers are regularly exposed to the maximum ultraviolet (UV) radiation from the sun's rays. Even in winter, UV exposure exists and can be magnified by the sun's reflection off the snow. Exposure to the sun's UV rays for extended periods without protection can result in skin cancer, eye cataracts and skin burns. Weather forecasts now tell us how long we can be exposed to the sun's UV rays using an index scale from 1–10. Table 3 highlights preventative actions by UV index recommended by Environment and Climate Change Canada (ECCC). UV Protection UV protection will reduce direct exposure. Consider the following prevention points: Covering and protecting all exposed skin areas (including lips) as much as possible to eliminate direct sun exposure. Consult physician if you notice any change in your skin condition e.g. rash, colour, etc. Wear a hat with a brim, which covers the neck. Apply sun screen (UVA and UVB protection) to all exposed skin, look for SPF 15 or higher. Wear UV filtered sun glasses whenever possible. Work in shady areas during peak UV times, between 11 am and 3 pm if possible. Consider starting your work day earlier to avoid peak UV periods during the day. Consider task rotation of crew members between sun and shade work areas. Take frequent breaks to avoid heat exhaustion. For more information, refer to the UV index and sun safety page on the ECCC website. ! ?