Working outdoors – whether on a construction site, a farm, or any other outside environment – comes with unique challenges.
According to a joint report from the World Health Organisation and the International Labour Organisation, working outdoors and under the sun causes 1 in 3 deaths from non-melanoma skin cancer.
Today's LifeJournal not only covers why year-round protection is critical for outdoor workers but also dives into the specific environmental and practical challenges that construction and outdoor workers face.
The hidden hazards of outdoor work
UV radiation: Always a threat, no matter the weather
It’s easy to assume you’re safe on overcast or cool days, but guess what? UV rays are still out there. Sunscreen isn’t just for sunny days—it’s essential all year round.
And the sun isn’t the only culprit. Surfaces like concrete, water, or even snow can bounce UV rays right back at you, nearly doubling your exposure. You’re getting hit from above and below.
Immediate and long-term risks
Sunburn and skin damage might show up fast—tanned, red or irritated skin is the most obvious sign. But the real trouble comes from repeated exposure. Skin aging, premature wrinkles, and skin cancer are long-term risks, and it’s not just about the occasional burn. Outdoor workers are 2-3 times more likely to experience sunburn, directly increasing their risk of skin cancer. Remember: Five sunburns in your life doubles your chances of skin cancer. Not worth it.
Unique challenges on construction sites
Inconsistent weather, but consistent risk
Cold or cloudy? Doesn’t matter. 95% of UV rays that reach the Earth are UVA—and they’re just as potent all year round. The need for protection doesn’t change based on the weather.
Dust, debris, and greasy substances
Heavy-duty sunscreens can be a pain to use on construction sites—dust and grime get stuck or attached to hands and skin making work difficult. They can also make you hot and sweat which contributes to them become less effective more quickly. The key? Lightweight, non-greasy formulas that absorb quickly and stick through the sweat. Plus, combining protective clothing with UPF-rated gear keeps you covered without that sticky, uncomfortable feeling.
Hard hats don’t cover everything
Sure, a hard hat offers some shade, but it leaves vulnerable spots like your neck, ears, and lower face wide open. Consider a neck flap or sun-protective hard hat attachments—small additions can make a big difference.
Reapplication struggles
Time is tight on the job, and finding moments to reapply sunscreen can be a challenge. Ask your employer to install sunscreen dispensers on-site for easy access and quick use. And preferably a high SPF, fast-absorbing, sweat-resistant sunscreen to keep the protection going as long as possible. In Australia, a site would be shut down without this—we should do the same.
Cultural barriers to sun safety
In industries like construction and farming, skincare often gets seen as something "unmanly" or unnecessary. It's time to flip the script. Emphasise the health, longevity, and performance benefits of skin protection. It’s about being smart—taking care of your skin so you can keep working and playing hard for years to come.
Practical Sun Protection Tips
1. Use broad-spectrum sunscreen
Opt for SPF 30 or higher, ensuring it protects against both UVA and UVB rays. Apply it 20 minutes before heading outside, and reapply every two hours (more if you’re sweating or working in dusty conditions). In autumn and winter, an SPF moisturiser at the start of the day is a good move. In spring and summer, do that AND use sunscreen throughout the day.
2. Wear protective clothing
Long-sleeved shirts, pants, and gear with integrated UV protection (think hard hat attachments or neck flaps) create a barrier against UV rays that sunscreen can’t always cover. This is known as UPF clothing and you can learn more about it here.
3. Seek shade when you can
To the extent you can, try to schedule work early or late in the day, avoiding peak UV hours (typically 11am–3pm). When possible, take breaks in shaded areas—whether from tents, trees, or temporary covers.
4. Make sunscreen easily accessible
Get sunscreen dispensers placed in high-traffic areas on-site to encourage use throughout the day, even with limited break times.
5. Educate and normalise sun safety
Promote a skin-safe culture at work. Lead by example, offer training on skin checks, and educate your crew on the long-term risks of UV exposure. Making it the norm is the first step in keeping everyone safe.
6. Clean and reapply
At the end of the day, wash off all the dust, grime, and industrial residues. It keeps your skin healthy and prepped for the next day’s protection routine.
Wrap-up
Skin protection is critical for long-term health, especially for those in outdoor, high-risk jobs. By understanding the unique challenges faced on construction sites—from unpredictable weather and grime to the need for practical reapplication and overcoming cultural stigmas—workers can implement effective strategies to safeguard themselves.
Need sunscreen dispensers, training, or skin protection products tailored for your site? Get in touch. We’re here to ensure every worker is protected, because at LifeJacket Skin Protection, we’ve got your back.
