May is Skin Cancer Awareness Month, which raises awareness about the dangers of skin cancer and focuses on sun protection and early detection. According to the Skin Cancer Foundation, working outside raises an individual’s risk of nonmelanoma skin cancers by 60%, so it is important construction workers know how to protect themselves.
The foundation reports nearly one in three deaths from nonmelanoma skin cancer is related to exposure associated with working outdoors. And of these deaths, 65% of people were male—mostly older men with skin damaged by years of ultraviolet exposure while working outdoors. Additionally, 50% of outdoor workers reported getting sunburn, which can play a significant role in developing melanoma.
Roofing workers should keep in mind that roofs with high solar reflectance—such as some types of cool roofs—can reflect sunlight, increasing the risk of skin and eye damage from heightened glare and UV exposure.
The Skin Cancer Foundation shares the following recommendations to stay safe when working outdoors.
- Seek shade whenever possible, especially during peak sun hours.
- Wear a long-sleeved shirt, pants, a wide-brimmed hat and UV-blocking sunglasses. When possible, choose clothing with a UV protection factor of 50 or higher.
- When spending extended time outdoors, apply a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of 50 or higher to all skin not covered by clothing, including your hands. Reapply sunscreen every two hours or after sweating or swimming.
- Know the UV index, which measures the intensity of UV radiation at a specific location. Working where the sun is strong year-round increases your exposure level and risk.
- Even when it’s cloudy, foggy or cool, UV rays can damage your skin, so protect yourself every day.
- Check your skin monthly for anything new, changing or unusual. If you see something, make an appointment with a dermatologist as soon as possible.
- See a dermatologist at least once a year for a professional skin cancer screening.
