Working safely in the sun
Workers who spend all, or part, of their day outdoors are at increased risk of sunburn, eye damage and skin cancer due to their exposure to UV radiation from the sun.
Australia's Occupational Health and Safety (OHS) legislation recommends employers take action to reduce the amount of UV radiation their employees are exposed to.
Cancer Council WA can assist your workplace to provide employees with SunSmart work environments, particularly if they are outdoor workers.
Outdoor worker resources
Cancer Council WA, with support from the WA Department of Health and WorkSafe WA, has developed a series of SunSmart resources for outdoor workers.
These include: an information brochure and poster for employees; and a detailed guide for employers regarding sun protection and early detection of skin cancer (including a sample sun protection policy).
Workplace education sessions for outdoor workers are also offered to supplement the printed resources. View our range of publications, resources and education sessions available for workplaces.
Online training course
'Working safely in the sun' is an online training course that is ideal for employee safety training, staff induction or professional development for health and safety representatives.
The online course is designed for individuals or small groups. Workers can learn how to work safely in the sun at their own pace and at a time that best fits their busy work schedule. For costs and registration go to www.sunsmartelearning.com.au
Workplace SunSmart policy development
Cancer Council WA can assist workplaces to review their existing sun protection policy or develop a new policy.
A workplace sun protection policy is just as important for office workers who participate in lunch time walking groups, team sports or corporate athletic events held on weekends, as it is for outdoor workers. The policy should cover any outdoor activities held by the organisation during the day. For more information view our sample workplace sun protection policy.
Shade development
The Shade Handbook (cost $39.95 including GST) provides workplaces with useful information on how to build worksite shade structures and/or provide portable shade for outdoor workers.
This detailed 40-page resource includes a CD with worksheets to help develop shade for a range of environments. To order a copy contact our Resource Officer on 9388 4333 or download the Shade handbook order form.
Skin cancer awareness for all workers
Indoor workers who spend long periods of time outdoors on weekends and when on holidays are also at risk of skin cancer if they do not protect themselves from the sun. Cancer Council WA provides resources and education on skin cancer awareness and sun protection for everyone in your workplace.
SunSmart Speaker's kit
The 'Be SunSmart and save your skin' speaker's kit has been developed for workplaces that are unable to have a health professional from Cancer Council WA deliver a presentation at their workplace. It is particularly used for workplaces with shift workers or in regional locations.
The comprehensive 88-page resource includes a CD-Rom with two powerpoint presentations that a health and safety representative at your workplace can use to deliver a skin cancer awareness education session.
To order this resource contact our Resource Officer on (08) 9388 4333 or visit our publications page.
