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Slip, slop, slap before starting work this summer

Living outdoors is a way of life in sunny Queensland but the thousands of people who work outdoors need to be extra careful in summer to minimise the risk of sunburn and skin cancers.

Employers have a responsibility to minimise health and safety risks under section 20-2 of the Workplace Health and Safety Act 1995 (PDF, 960 KB).

Sunburn and skin cancers are two health risks for outdoor workers that can be managed.

Where possible, Cancer Council Queensland recommends people stay out of the sun between 10am and 3pm when UV rays are at their strongest and most dangerous.

For the hundreds of thousands of construction workers, farmers, lifeguards, security guards, police officers, fishermen, landscapers and gardeners that work outdoors, this can be impossible, but the following tips can help:

rotate tasks in the direct sunlight between employees
use trees, buildings and other temporary shades as shelter where possible
avoid working near reflective materials such as polished metal or new concrete as these can increase your UV exposure
take your meal break or smoko in the shade or inside
drink plenty of cool water
slip on protective clothing (long sleeved, UPF-rated shirts)
slop sunscreen on any exposed areas such as your face, neck and hands 20 minutes before sun exposure and re-apply every two hours
slap on a broad-brimmed hat and sunglasses.

For more information on sun safety phone is available online or phone the WHS Infoline on 1300 369 915 or visit the Cancer Council Queensland’s website (non Queensland Government link).

Table of contents | Don't be blinded by the dangers of glare

Employees who work in direct sunlight may be able to claim a tax deduction on safety items such as hats, sunglasses and sunscreen if they are used at work. For more information on tax deductions, contact your accountant or the Australian Taxation Office’s Business Tax Line on 13 28 66.