Working outdoors in the summertime can be an amazing experience- being outside and breathing in fresh air have been linked to increased happiness and health.
However, when working outdoors in the heat, it is important to consider sun protection.
The Dangers
Working outdoors can lead to exposure to UV radiation from the sun, this can cause:
- Sunburns
- Certain types of cancer including melanoma, squamous cell carcinoma, and basal cell carcinoma
- Damage to eyes
- Premature aging skin
It’s especially important to be mindful of sun exposure during 12:00pm-2:00pm. Remember, that sunlight can also cause indirect damage: light reflected off of surfaces (i.e. water) can also lead to UV exposure.
Protect Yourself
- Wear long sleeves and pants to cover your skin from the sun- keep cool by wearing light colours
- Wear a hat with a brim or flap to cover your head and ears
- Use sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher. Reapply as required.
- Wear safety sunglasses to protect your eyes from UV exposure
- Drink plenty of water to avoid dehydration
- Regularly check your skin for moles or spots
- Work/rest in the shade, where possible
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