Slip, slop, slap
The bad news: Every year more than 10,000 Australians are treated for melanoma and 1250 of these people die. Outdoor workers have a higher chance of being one of these statistics.
The good news: Skin cancer is preventable, you just need to get into the habit of protecting yourself.
Follow the guidelines set out by the Cancer Council Australia which include:
- Slip on sun-protective clothing – that covers as much skin as possible.
- Slop on a broad spectrum, water resistant SPF30+ sunscreen. Put it on 20 minutes before you go outdoors and every two hours afterwards. Sunscreen should never be used to extend the time you spend in the sun.
- Slap on a hat -that protects your face, head, neck and ears
- Seek shade – find ways to reduce the time spent in the sun.
- Slide on sunglasses– make sure they meet Australian Standards (SOURCE: Cancer Council Australia)
Contact our OH&S expert, Darren Gibson, for more information or to replenish your stock of sunscreen.
Employer duty of care
Employers must provide and maintain safe working environments which include protection from exposure to UV radiation. (Source: State Occupational Health and Safety Act).
More information about sun smart workplaces is available in the Cancer Council’s fact sheet.
1300apprentice views this as a very important issue and we have decided to support the Melanoma Foundation of Australia this year by nominating the foundation to receive a percentage of the cost through our chosen Christmas card design.
