Sun exposure is one of the most underestimated workplace hazards, especially for outdoor workers. Prolonged exposure to ultraviolet (UV) radiation can cause serious health risks, but with the right protections, employers and employees can reduce these dangers.

Why Sun Exposure is a Workplace Hazard

• UV radiation risk: Outdoor workers are exposed to UV radiation for long periods, which can lead to skin damage, sunburn, premature aging, and skin cancers.
• Eye health: UV rays can also damage the eyes, increasing the risk of cataracts and other vision problems.
• Heat stress: Extended time in the sun raises the risk of dehydration, heat exhaustion, and heatstroke, which can impair concentration and increase accident risks.
• Cumulative exposure: Unlike a one-time hazard, UV damage builds up over years, making outdoor workers particularly vulnerable.

Employer Responsibilities

The legislation prescribes that employers must provide a safe workplace that is without risks to health and safety. As such, employers must take steps to eliminate or reduce UV exposure risks so far as is reasonably practicable. This includes:

• Risk assessment: Identifying tasks and times of day when UV exposure is highest.
• Protective measures: Providing shade structures, scheduling work outside peak UV hours (10 am–3 pm), and rotating tasks to limit exposure.
• Education: Training workers on the dangers of UV radiation and how to protect themselves.
• Policy implementation: Establishing sun protection policies as part of workplace health and safety systems.
• Monitoring conditions: Being aware of UV index levels and reporting unsafe conditions.
• Consulting with employees: in relation to the hazard of sun exposure.

Worker Responsibilities

Under the OHS Act, employees have a duty to take reasonable care of their own, and others, health and safety and to co-operate with measures taken by their employer to ensure health and safety. Employees can play a role in protecting themselves by, for example:

• Wearing protective clothing: Long-sleeved shirts, wide-brimmed hats, and sunglasses with UV protection.
• Applying sunscreen: Broad-spectrum SPF 30+ sunscreen should be applied regularly throughout the day.
• Hydration: Drinking water frequently to prevent heat stress.
• Monitoring and reporting: Being aware of UV index levels and reporting unsafe conditions.

Building a Sun-Safe Workplace Culture

Creating a workplace culture that prioritizes sun safety is essential. This means:

• Normalising sunscreen use and reapplication breaks.
• Encouraging workers to look out for each other’s wellbeing.
• Making protective gear accessible and mandatory.
• Recognising that sun protection is not just a personal choice but a workplace safety requirement.

Key Takeaways

• Sun exposure is a serious occupational hazard for outdoor workers.
• Employers must provide protections such as shade, scheduling, and training.
• Workers must take proactive steps like wearing protective clothing and using sunscreen.
• A strong workplace culture around sun safety reduces risks and promotes long-term health.

Sunlight is vital for life, but in the workplace, it must be managed like any other hazard. Hazard identification and risk control is a legal requirement under the OHS Act. By treating UV exposure with the same seriousness as machinery or chemicals, employers and workers can ensure safer, healthier outdoor environments.

For more guidance in relation to this: Sun protection for outdoor workers | WorkSafe Victoria