ARE YOU SAFE IN THE SUN?
Following over a year of lockdowns and Covid restrictions, the urge to get outdoors, for everyone, has never been greater. However, whilst the sun brings benefits – such as helping to replenish our depleted vitamin D levels – it also presents a real hazard, especially to roofers and construction workers who are on site throughout the often intense summer months. And whilst Covid restrictions remain an essential part of all our lives for the foreseeable, Marley is urging contractors to focus on the importance of sun safety with the launch of its annual ‘Safe in the Sun’ campaign.
Serious issue
Problems caused by the sun’s damaging rays are well-documented – from premature ageing of the skin and heat exhaustion through to deadly malignant melanoma. Moreover, being in an outdoor setting can increase the risk of being affected by these conditions. According to the British Journal of Cancer, working in the sun could lead to one death and five new cases of melanoma skin cancer per week, with construction workers recording the highest number of deaths at 44%. It’s a serious issue.
However, the good news is that experts believe 4 out of 5 cases of skin cancer caused by UV exposure could be prevented if robust precautions were taken.
Protecting the workforce
That’s where Marley comes in…
Daniel Redfern, Marketing Manager at Marley said, ‘As a responsible roof systems manufacturer, Marley has been championing sun safety for well over 15 years – and this year’s no different.
‘With contractors working for long periods of time outdoors, often in direct sunshine and intense heat, we aim to provide useful, no-nonsense advice to make sure our customers are aware of the potential risks, and are properly protected.
‘This year’s campaign focusses on three important lines of defence in the fight against sun-induced illness – Cover Up, Use Sunscreen and Hydrate – to make sure everyone working on site this summer stays safe in the sun.’
Cover up
Clothing, especially those made using high rated UPF fabrics, should always be the first line of defence against sun damage, as it provides one of the most effective barriers between skin and sun. As much skin as possible should be covered, with particular attention being paid to areas that burn easily such as the neck and shoulders.
On site, a hard hat is essential, ideally with a brim and flap to shade the face, ears and neck whilst UV protective safety sunglasses (UV 400 rating) will help protect the delicate eye area.
Use sunscreen
Appy a sunscreen of at least Sun Protection Factor (SPF) 30 (for UVB protection) and a star rating of 4 or 5 (for UVA protection) evenly and regularly to all areas of exposed skin – including the face. Using a water-resistant formula will also help provide better protection as it is more able to cope with the effects of sweating.
Ideally, sunscreen should be applied at least 20 minutes before going outside and then re-applied every two hours. Consistency – in terms of even coverage and regular application is essential.
Hydrate
Not drinking enough water, especially whilst working hard on site in high temperatures as the body sweats to cool down, can cause serious, and if left unchecked, emergency medical conditions.
The risk of dehydration, heat exhaustion and in extreme cases, heatstroke can be reduced by ensuring that fluids, ideally water, are consumed regularly throughout the day.
Get your Safe in the Sun kit
Daniel said, ‘Aiming to offer sun protection when it’s needed most, Marley is offering a Safe in the Sun kit, featuring a Marley-branded T shirt, sunscreen and water bottle – in fact, everything you need to Cover Up, Use Sunscreen and Hydrate whilst on site.
‘All you have to do to receive your essential kit, along with handy information to make the most of the sun – safely – is visit the Marley website – www.marley.co.uk/safeinthesun and register your details. Stock is limited, so early registration is recommended to avoid disappointment.’
For further details on Marley’s Safe in the Sun campaign or any of the company’s products, please visit www.marley.co.uk or call 01283 722222.
