Working Outdoors & Skin Cancer

The number of skin cancer cases worldwide is staggering and outdoor work makes a notable contribution.

The World Health Organisation and International Labour Organization released a joint report in early 2024, on the number of workers exposed to high levels of sunlight. They particularly pointed out how many develop skin cancer.

The report could make this seem like a third world problem, when higher percentages of people work in agriculture, or other outdoor sectors.

They are certainly at risk, have little regulation to protect them and often, little knowledge of the danger the sun holds. Greater support is needed, although we should bear in mind that citizens of other countries are at risk.

The UK Scenario

The WHO investigation suggested that outdoor workers have a 60% greater likelihood of developing non-melanoma skin cancer. A figure in line with other research and bearing in mind numbers involved, a potential threat to many lives.

Over 500,000 people in the UK work at outdoor facilities, or events, from music, to recreation. Around 2,500,000 work in construction, agriculture, forestry, or fishing. A further 500,000 hold occupations which take them outside for long periods.

They could be archaeologists, biologists, land surveyors, photographers, coastguards and more. We should add to this the numbers who drive for substantial hours, often with a window open to the sun.

There is no finite figure but realistically, 10% of the UK workforce is at serious risk from the sun. Less than half the global average but still a lot of people, whose working life can bring skin cancer.

Finding Solutions

In a sense, part of the battle is recognising the problem. Many outdoor workers feel grateful for their healthy lifestyle and who can blame them but there is one element which is not healthy in large quantities, the sun’s UV rays.

Without losing the pleasure people see in being outdoors, there are a few key steps which will bring protection:

All year round sunscreen use and regular reapplication.
Protective clothing, such as trousers and long sleeves.
A large, wide brimmed hat and UV protective sunglasses.
Using the benefit of shade as part of a working routine.

There is little regulation about working in the sun, even in the UK but responsible employers should help, through education and practical changes.

Routines can be amended to avoid peak sunlight times, shade facilities provided, along with sunscreen and other protection. They can also consider regular skin checks for their staff, to ensure early stage intervention if there are issues.

Protecting Yourself

Pointing out the situation to your employer may help and points in the list above, this is a danger we can almost all protect ourselves from.

Whilst the report focused on non-melanoma skin cancers, you are also safeguarding yourself from melanoma, the most deadly of skin cancers. At the same time, you protect your family and the job you enjoy.

A critical point is to check your skin regularly and seek professional support if there could be a problem. The vast majority of skin cancers are entirely treatable at an early stage but may not be if ignored.

You are welcome to see more on modern skin cancer treatment, which has progressed. Still better if you can avoid the need for this.