Each year, an estimated 3,000 new cases of skin cancer are diagnosed among workers in construction-related fields, a number projected to double by 2060 without greater prevention efforts. Promoting sun safety and recognizing early warning signs must become a priority across all levels of the workforce.
Even on cloudy days, UV in sunlight can increase the risk of melanoma and other forms of skin cancer. To best protect yourself and your team, it's suggested to reduce exposure when the sun’s rays are the strongest, between 10 a.m. and 2 p.m., and to seek shade when your shadow appears shorter than yourself or whenever appropriate.
Protective clothing, including long-sleeved shirts, pants, wide-brimmed hats with a cloth flap secured to cover the back of the neck and sunglasses can also help to reduce exposure. It’s recommended to use a broad-spectrum, water-resistant sunscreen with a Sun Protection Factor (SPF) of 30 or higher on any exposed skin and reapply every two hours and after any excessive sweating. Set a timer for yourself and others on the site to reapply.
Water, snow and sand also reflect and intensify light, leading to a higher chance of sunburn.
It’s important to self-examine skin areas as well as to be on the lookout for moles and marks. The ABCDE’s of Melanoma can help identify warning signs of skin cancer:
Any new growths, changes in moles, non-healing sores, itching or bleeding should be noted with great care. Contact a dermatologist if you see any signs.
For more information about Melanoma Awareness and the #GetNaked campaign to spread information, visit melanoma.org.
Visit the Melanoma Foundation website for further information on prevention and care.
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