Checking for Skin Cancer

A General Guide

• Any mole or ulcer that does not heal.

• Any new "mole" which appears and grows.

• Any existing "mole" which changes, particularly if it develops an irregular edge and/or variations in color (black, brown, pink)

• Any "mole" which bleeds or which is persistently itchy.

Outdoor workers and skin cancer

• UV radiation should be considered an occupational hazard for people who work outdoors.

• As an employer you can

• Include sun protection advice in routine health and safety training.

• Make clothing your first line of protection. Choose clothing that offers good body coverage i.e... Covers the arms and legs as well as the body.

• Closely woven and darker colored fabrics offer more protection from UVR than pastel colors.

• Wear a broad-brimmed hat or legionnaires cap, sunglasses with an EPF 10 rating.

• Seek shade whenever possible - the level of sun protection provided by a shade structure depends on the design and material used.

• Inform workers that a tan is not healthy - it is a sign that skin has already been damaged by the sun.

• Encourage workers to keep covered up during the summer months - especially at lunch time when the sun is at its hottest. They can cover up with a long-sleeved shirt, and a hat with a brim or flap that protects the ears and neck.

• Encourage workers to take their breaks in the shade, if possible, rather than staying out in the sun.

• Consider scheduling work to minimise exposure. Site water points and rest areas in the shade.

• Encourage workers to drink plenty of water to avoid dehydration. Encourage workers to check their skin regularly for unusual spots or moles that change size, shape or colour and to seek medical advice promptly if they find anything that causes them concern.

Why not an ordinary Cotton T/Shirt?

• Normal White T-shirt has a SPF factor of around 7

• When loosely woven T-shirts get wet, they are even less effective at blocking the sun. A wet T-shirt has a SPF factor of around five.

• Tightly Woven Fabric - The tighter the fabric, the harder it is for the sun's rays to reach you. A polo shirt for instance when its dry offers an SPF of about 9.

• Synthetic Fibers - These are good because they tend to have tighter weaves.

• Dark Fabric - Dark fabric absorbs the light better, though you will feel hotter in dark clothing.

• The Nozone Sun Protection clothing range gives you the maximum UPF50+ which offers you 98% protection against UV Rays.