Building and construction-sunburn and heat stress
Did you know that melanoma (a type of skin cancer) is the most common cancer in 15 – 44 year olds and a major cause of cancer death in young people?
You might think that a suntan makes you look healthier but there can be some very serious damage going on.
Just getting sunburnt is bad enough but the more time you spend in the sun the greater the damage and risk of skin cancer. Getting sunburnt frequently also means you are more likely to get skin cancer.
What should you do to prevent sunburn, skin cancer and heat stress?
- wear protective clothing - all outdoor workers should be covered to elbows and knees, and workers with fair skin should wear long sleeves and long pants
- wear a hat with a brim, safety glasses with UV protection
and sunscreen - drink lots of water
- take breaks in cooler places
What should your boss do?
- think about the day's tasks, know the weather forecast and assess how to organise the day to avoid heat stress and stroke
- make shade available
- rearrange and lighten the work in extreme heat
- provide workers with information on heat stress and skin cancer and ways to prevent both
- supervise workers to ensure they are working safely
Working outdoors all day puts you at risk of heat stress and heat stroke.
How do you know you have heat stress?
- you'll feel tired, grumpy, a bit out of it , feel your heart beating quickly and have cramps in your muscles
- your urine will be a darker than normal colour
What should you do if you feel heat stress?
- rest in a cool place
- drink cool, rather than cold, drinks
- report to your boss or first aid person
How do you know you have heat stroke?
- heat stroke is much worse than heat stress. You stop sweating and have a high temperature and rapid heartrate. You’ll be confused and might become unconscious.
What should your boss and workmates do if someone has heat stroke?
- call an ambulance
- cool the person down
- lie the person down
- if the person is conscious give them water
Want to know more about working in the sun?
Want to know more about heat stress?