As the Aussie sun intensifies, so does the risk to outdoor workers. Beyond the obvious danger of heat stress lies an invisible, constant threat: ultraviolet (UV) radiation. A robust UV protection strategy is not just best practice - it's a legal requirement designed to protect workers from skin cancer and long-term damage.
While engineering controls such as shade and administrative processes, Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) remains the frontline of defence. It’s what stands between your team and the sun's damaging rays.
Here's an expert guide to the essential PPE required to keep your team safe this Summer.
The Right Gear
Not all sun-safe gear is created equal. The standards are clear, evidence-based, and legally enforceable.
1. Clothing
For outdoor work, clothing is the most effective barrier against UV radiation. Workers must be provided with and wear:
- Long-sleeved shirts with a collar and long trousers.
- Materials rated UPF 50+, as verified by ARPANSA standards. This provides the highest level of sun protection, blocking at least 98% of UV radiation.
2. Hats
The humble baseball cap offers minimal protection to the ears, neck, and sides of the face - all high-risk areas for skin cancer. To be compliant and truly effective, hats should be:
- Made from UPF 50+ material.
- For hard hats, provide attachable wide brims or neck flaps for full UV coverage
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3. Sunglasses
UV radiation doesn't just damage skin; it can cause serious eye conditions, including cataracts and pterygium.
- Mandatory eyewear should be certified to meet Australian UV protection standards. These glasses block 95% or more of UV radiation, ensuring long-term eye health.
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4. Sunscreen
For any exposed skin, sunscreen is non-negotiable.
- Provide broad-spectrum, water-resistant sunscreen with an SPF of 30+ or 50+.
- Mandatory reapplication is required every two hours, and immediately after sweating or towel-drying.
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SPF50+ Sunscreen - 1 Litre Pump
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Wall Mount Sunscreen Station 500ml
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Beyond Compliance: A Commitment to Protection
All these measures are not mere suggestions; they are regulatory expectations and evidence-based best practices for Australian worksites. True worker protection is achieved through a combination of compliant PPE, engineering controls, and rigorous enforcement.
By investing in the right gear and making it part of your site's safety culture, you're not just avoiding fines—you're safeguarding the health and well-being of every person on your team.
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