Sun protection practices in Local Government

Cancer Council WA with the support of the Department of Health WA work closely with Local Governments throughout Western Australia to support the development and implementation of effective sun protection policies and practices as well as shade design.

Cancer Council WA can provide publications and education sessions for local government employees on skin cancer awareness and prevention.

Shade development

Cancer Council WA, with assistance from the Western Australian Local Government Association (WALGA), Planning Institute Australia (WA Division), the Australian Radiation Protection and Nuclear Safety Agency (ARPANSA) and Greening WA, has developed 'The Shade Handbook: a practical guide for shade development in Western Australia'.

The Shade Handbook outlines points to consider when planning shade for new facilities or outdoor areas and includes practical information and guidelines on developing shade for a range of environments. This resource is available on our publications page.

Sun protection survey

In 2007, the Cancer Council WA conducted a survey on  sun protection policies and practice in Local Governments. Results from the 2007 survey indicate that:

"sun protection is addressed across many areas of council activity, such as the protection of outdoor workers as well as staff and patrons of outdoor swimming pools.  It is clear however that gaps exist, particularly in the areas of policy, planning and development, and that a more comprehensive approach is necessary to reduce exposure to UV radiation in the community."                                                 

For more information about the survey download the summary (pdf 12.4mb). A full report is also available by contacting our Resource Officer on (08) 9388 4333.

The Cancer Council continues to work with Local Government to support their efforts to implement a comprehensive approach to sun protection for their employees and the wider community.

Outdoor workers

Many Local Government employees work outdoors maintaining parks, reserves, schools, street scapes and recreational facilities. Cancer Council WA produces a range of resources specifically developed for outdoor workers. For more information visit sun protection at work.