The HSE's National Cancer Control Programme (NCCP) has issued a vital reminder to outdoor workers and their employers to prioritise sun safety as UV radiation levels increase between April and September. Professionals in sectors such as construction, maintenance, agriculture, transport, and fisheries are particularly at risk, receiving up to three times the UV exposure of indoor workers.

With over 11,000 skin cancer cases diagnosed annually in Ireland, the HSE is calling on organisations to treat UV radiation with the same seriousness as any other workplace hazard. To assist in this effort, the NCCP is hosting a free public webinar, 'SunSmart for Outdoor Workers', on Tuesday 28th April at 12pm, offering practical guidance on risk reduction and occupational health strategies.

Dr Breeda Neville, Consultant in Public Health at the HSE's NCCP, said: "Outdoor workers receive two to three times more UV exposure than indoor workers. This cumulative exposure significantly increases their risk of developing skin cancer over time. UV protection must be treated with the same seriousness as any other workplace hazard. Simple measures, protective clothing, sunscreen, shade and training, can dramatically reduce risk. We urge all outdoor worker organisations to embed SunSmart practices into their safety culture this summer. Outdoor workers can significantly reduce the risk of skin cancer and sun damage with proper education and preventive measures. Workers should follow the SunSmart 5 S's, and employers must understand their responsibility to protect their employees."

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Both employers and employees are encouraged to follow the Healthy Ireland SunSmart 5 S's to mitigate the risk of skin damage and cancer:

• Slip on clothing that covers your skin, including collared shirts and long sleeves.

• Slop on SPF 30 or higher sunscreen 20 minutes before heading outside, reapplying every two hours.

• Slap on a wide-brimmed hat, or a hard hat equipped with a neck flap or brim.

• Seek shade during peak hours between 11am and 3pm, or reschedule outdoor tasks where possible.

• Slide on wraparound sunglasses to protect the eyes.

Dr Roisin Rynne, Dermatology Registrar at Tallaght University Hospital, highlighted the specific risks faced by those who drive for work, noting that repeated exposure often occurs without the driver realising it. To address this, the NCCP, in partnership with the Road Safety Authority and the Health and Safety Authority, has developed a new resource titled 'Driving for Work: Sun Safety Guidance'. This resource, designed for managers and safety officers, will be launched during the upcoming webinar to help protect staff with driving duties.