UV Risks in Australia
A recent review on this subject highlighted the serious risk that skin cancer poses for all of us here in Australia, particularly for outdoor workers, or those with regular outdoor recreational pursuits.
Research confirms that almost all skin cancers are caused by exposure to ultraviolet (UV) radiation eg sunlight.
Skin cancers are generally grouped for convenience into
a) melanomas, and
b) non-melanomas.
Melanoma is a less common but more dangerous type of skin cancer that starts in melanin-producing cells and is more likely to spread, whereas non-melanoma cancers, such as basal cell carcinoma (BCC) and squamous cell carcinoma (SCC), are far more frequent and generally slower-growing. The key differences lie in the cell type they originate from, their relative frequency, and their potential to metastasize.
Vitamin D vs UV Exposure
Health authorities advise that most people get sufficient vitamin D levels through regular incidental exposure to (UV) sunlight. The body only needs a small amount of UV to make vitamin D. Any extra exposure to UV only adds to risk of skin damage. Therefore, sunbathing is not necessary or recommended.
When the ultraviolet radiation (UV) Index is 3 or above (see scale above), most people maintain adequate vitamin D levels just by spending a few minutes outdoors on most days of the week.
Some Compelling Facts
Australia and NZ have the highest incident rate of skin cancer in the world.
Skin cancer causes more deaths than transport accidents every year in Australia. Interestingly, Australian governments collectively spend billions of dollars on roads and collect a similar amount in traffic fines every year in the name of road safety, but don’t show the same concern about skin cancer deaths.
70% of all Australians will be diagnosed with a skin cancer in their lifetime.
Over 95% of all skin cancers are caused by exposure to ultraviolet (UV) radiation from sunlight.
Sunscreen does give UV protection when used correctly, but most people don’t re-apply it frequently enough eg 2-hourly to maintain protection. So, researchers recommend PPE and shade as our first priority.
UV radiation penetrates thin cloud, so harmful exposure still possible.
Outdoor workers are estimated to have 3 to 6 times the UV exposure compared to indoor workers.
Not all clothing or PPE provides adequate UV protection.
Laminated vehicle windscreens provide UV protection, but other glass does not.
Skin cancer rates increase with age, long after earlier UV exposure.
Many people wear base-ball type caps, often handed out or sold at trade shows and events, which leave the neck, ears and side of the face exposed.
As exposure to sunlight is well-known to cause skin cancer, workers compensation claims, and cost of claims is expected to continue to rise.
Exposure to certain chemicals and plants can increase photosensitivity in some people, increasing their risk of skin cancer.
Suggested work policies and personal protection strategies
Minimise outdoor work in the middle of the day, where possible. Particularly in summer when UV levels are at the highest.
Provide shade for regular outdoor work.
Implement a “long-longs” policy for outdoor work eg long sleeves, trousers, broad-brimmed hat and wrap-around sunglasses.
Use sunscreen daily, along with shade and protective clothing, to augment your UV protection.
Specify UV rated clothing and PPE for outdoor work.
Consider periodic skin checks for yourself and outdoor workers over 55 years of age.
The good news about skin cancer is that treatment has a high success rate when detected early, so be vigilant and follow precautions.
