Guide

Sun Safety Tips For The Workplace

By Ryan Graham, WHS Officer, 25 October 2022

One of the most common places people are exposed to harmful UV rays is in the workplace. There are two main types of skin cancer: melanoma and non-melanoma. Melanoma is the most serious type of skin cancer and can be deadly if not caught early. Non-melanoma skin cancers, such as basal cell carcinoma and squamous cell carcinoma, are less serious but can still be very dangerous if left untreated.

How to prevent skin cancer:

  • Make sure to wear sunscreen every day, even if it’s cloudy outside. The Skin Cancer Foundation recommends using a sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30 that provides broad-spectrum protection against both UVA and UVB rays. Additionally, it is important to reapply sunscreen every two hours.
  • Wear protective clothing, such as long-sleeved shirts and pants, when you are outside.
  • Take breaks often to get out of the sun and into the shade.
  • See your doctor regularly for skin checks so that any skin cancer can be caught early and treated before it becomes more serious.

Skin cancer symptoms

  • Change in the size, shape, color, or feel of a mole
  • New growth on the skin
  • A sore that doesn’t heal
  • Itching or bleeding on the skin

What to do if you think you have skin cancer

If you think you may have skin cancer, it is important to see a doctor right away. Skin cancer can be treated effectively if it is caught early. If you notice any changes in your skin, such as new growths or changes in existing moles, be sure to make an appointment with your doctor. They will be able to determine if you have skin cancer and, if so, what the best treatment option is for you.

Skin cancer is a very dangerous disease that can be deadly if it is not caught early. That’s why it’s so important to take steps to protect yourself from the sun’s harmful rays by following these steps. Do you have any sun safety tips to share?

This Post Is Part Of A Series: 101 Toolbox Topic Ideas For The Construction Industry
Do you struggle to come up with toolbox talk ideas each week to discuss with your workers? Fear no more, Work Safety QLD is here to the rescue with 101 Free Toolbox Talk Ideas for the Construction Industry.

RG

Ryan Graham, WHS Officer

16 years on Queensland sites. Ryan writes the guides and the templates, and checks them against current Queensland WHS legislation.

About Work Safety QLD

Free download

Free SWMS template for Queensland

The full SWMS layout in Word, ready for your logo, job steps and controls.

Keep reading

More guides

All guides

8 December 2024

Comprehensive Guide to Concrete Core Drilling Safety in Queensland

Concrete core drilling is a precise and efficient method for creating circular holes in concrete, brick, stone, and other tough materials.

Read the guide

25 November 2024

Motorbike Riding Safety

Motorbikes are a common mode of transportation for many workers in Queensland, offering convenience, cost savings, and the ability to navigate traffic efficiently.

Read the guide

27 August 2024

Safe Tree Removal in Urban Areas

While trees provide numerous benefits to our cities, there are times when removal becomes necessary due to disease, damage, or potential hazards.

Read the guide

Turn the guide into paperwork.

Every guide links to the template that puts it into practice. Start with the free SWMS template.