Sun and UV Exposure

Toolbox Talk Record

Ref: TBT-OCC-007  |  Issue: 1  |  Date: March 2026
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What?

Why?

Skin cancerConstruction workers have significantly elevated rates of skin cancer — cumulative UV exposure over a career causes the damage.
Invisible damageUV radiation damages skin cells before you feel sunburn — by the time your skin is red, DNA damage has already occurred.
Year-round riskUV is present from early spring through autumn and penetrates cloud — sun protection is needed from April to September, not just in heatwaves.
Do Don't
  • Apply sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher to all exposed skin before starting work.
  • Reapply sunscreen every two hours, and immediately after heavy sweating.
  • Wear a hat with a brim or neck flap to protect your face, ears, and neck.
  • Wear long sleeves and UV-protective clothing when working outdoors.
  • Schedule breaks in shaded areas during peak UV hours between 11am and 3pm.
  • Check your skin regularly for new or changing moles and sores that do not heal.
  • Check whether your medication increases sensitivity to UV radiation.
  • Provide shaded rest areas for outdoor workers during summer months.
  • Wear UV-protective sunglasses to protect your eyes from UV damage.
  • Treat sun protection as a serious health measure, not optional personal choice.
  • DON'T work outdoors without sunscreen applied to all exposed skin.
  • DON'T assume one application of sunscreen lasts all day — reapply every two hours.
  • DON'T work bare-chested — exposed torsos receive intense UV radiation.
  • DON'T rely on a hard hat alone — it does not protect ears, neck, or face.
  • DON'T ignore peak UV hours — take shade breaks between 11am and 3pm.
  • DON'T dismiss new moles or skin changes — check them and report concerns.
  • DON'T take photosensitising medication without knowing it increases your UV risk.
  • DON'T expect workers to find shade — provide shaded rest areas on site.
  • DON'T neglect eye protection — UV causes cataracts and long-term eye damage.
  • DON'T treat sunscreen as optional — it prevents the cancer that kills construction workers.

See also: Summer Heat and Hydration | Occupational Health Awareness