Sun protection: UV radiation and protection when working outdoors

Whether on construction sites, in agriculture or in the field - many employees are exposed to strong sunlight every day. But while UV radiation is taken seriously on holiday, the issue is often neglected in the workplace.

Protection from the sun and heat is not just a question of comfort - but also of health protection. For BGM managers, HR teams and Executives is clear: Sun protection at the workplace is mandatory - and not a nice-to-have!

Solar radiation - the underestimated occupational risk

According to the WHO, UV radiation is a certain trigger for skin cancer. Anyone who regularly works outdoors is therefore particularly at risk - even when the sky is overcast. Unlike heatstroke or sunburn, the Long-term consequences difficult to recognise, often even insidious.

Occupational skin cancer is now one of the most common recognised occupational diseases in Germany - and the trend is rising sharply. Particularly affected: People with light-coloured skin who regularly work outdoors between April and September.

Particularly vulnerable sectors with a high UV risk

Sun protection is not just for construction workers in the midday heat.
The following occupational groups are particularly at risk:

• Construction industry (e.g. roofers, road construction)
• Garden and landscape maintenance
• Agriculture and forestry
• Delivery services and field service
• Cleaning staff in outdoor areas (e.g. window cleaning)
• Port and transport personnel
• Event technology and set-up personnel for open-air events

In short: Wherever activities regularly take place outdoors, the Sun protection at the workplace an operational necessity.

Danger of skin cancer due to high UV exposure - what you can do to prevent it

Too much UV radiation damages the skin cells - even without visible sunburn. The consequences can be Basal cell carcinoma or squamous cell carcinoma white skin cancer. In some cases, there is also the more dangerous black skin cancer (melanoma).

This is why preventive measures are important:

Preventive measures are essential for several reasons: they help to recognise and reduce health risks such as skin cancer at an early stage, before serious or even chronic illnesses occur. At the same time, companies benefit from less downtime, as heat-related complaints or long-term secondary illnesses can be effectively avoided with targeted sun protection.

In addition, many accident insurance funds actively support skin cancer prevention - it not only makes sense from a health perspective, but also sends a clear signal that occupational health and safety is practised and taken seriously.

Which protective measures are sensible - and which are mandatory?

1. Workplace design & organisation

• Set up a shade centreTents, tarpaulins or mobile shelters at workplaces.
• Customise layers: Organise working hours so that physically strenuous activities take place in the morning or evening.
• Adjust break regulationAllow frequent breaks in the shade in hot weather.

2. Personal protective equipment

• Sun protective clothing with UV seal (e.g. long-sleeved, breathable shirts with UPF 50+)
• Headgear with neck protection and sunglasses if necessary
• Sun cream with a high sun protection factor (at least SPF 30, better 50)

Important: The DGUV (German Social Accident Insurance) expressly recommends that employers use sunscreen Provide free of chargewhen employees have to work outside - especially for outdoor activities that cannot be moved.

3. Information and health education

• Training on the correct handling of UV radiation
• Information material on the topic of skin health
• Skin screenings or dermatologist checks, e.g. as part of health days (can be organised via BGM)

Employer obligations - what is regulated by law?

According to the Occupational Health and Safety Act (§ 3 ArbSchG), employers are obliged to Identify and minimise hazards in the workplace - This also includes UV radiation. DGUV Rule 112-190 and the Technical Rules for the Skin (TRGS 401) make it clear: sun protection falls under the Obligation to provide personal protective equipment (PPE).

In concrete terms, this means

• Employers must minimise UV risks within the Risk assessment capture.
• If you regularly work outdoors, you must wear a suitable PPE (incl. sun cream) are provided.
• It should be documented how the Instruction of the employees.

Additional tips for a holistic OHM

Effective sun protection at the workplace is part of the overall health strategy - especially in summer. The OHM can establish further protective measures with little effort:

• Regular training courses for employees on how to deal with UV radiation, the correct use of sun cream and recognising early skin changes.
• Skin screenings or dermatologist checks as part of health days - especially in the summer months.
• UV-Index apps on company mobile phones to make employees aware of daily radiation levels.
• Information posters in break rooms or on construction sites with simple behavioural tips.
• Seasonal health newsletter with tips on sun protection, suitable clothing and behaviour in hot weather.
• Weather-adapted work clothing as part of the PPE (e.g. light, long-sleeved shirts with UV protection).
• Feedback rounds with employeesto design and continuously improve protective measures in a practical manner.
• Sensitise superiorsto exemplify protective measures and emphasise their relevance in everyday working life.
• Set up shade zones in break arease.g. with parasols or pavilions.

Conclusion: sun protection for outdoor work is a living example of occupational safety

Sun protection at work is not a luxury - it is part of the duty of care and an important component of modern occupational health management. Companies with field service, construction or agricultural staff in particular should proactively take UV protection measures. Those who take precautions today not only protect their employees, but also their own company from long-term absences, occupational illnesses and damage to their image.