Sun protection practices in Local Government
The local government sector is well placed to support efforts to reduce exposure to ultraviolet (UV) radiation in the community as they have an integral role in the town planning process, are responsible for granting planning and development approvals, and also control and operate a range of recreational and community facilities.
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.
For more information, follow the links below:
Shade development
Shade provides good protection from the sun and it can be easy for people to use. When used in conjunction with other protective measures, such as sun-protective clothing, hats, sunglasses and sunscreen, shade can be the best route to maximum UV radiation protection. The provision of shade has also been identified as an important component in the design and creation of safe and healthy communities.
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.
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 as well as education sessions for employees. For more information visit sun protection at work.
Sun protection survey
In 2007, the Cancer Council WA conducted a survey on sun protection policies and practice in Local Governments. Results from the2007 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 The 2007 Local Government Sun Protection Survey: A Summary (pdf, 1.2MB). A full report is also available by contacting our Resource Officer on (08) 9388 4333.
