NSW launches campaign to protect outdoor workers from skin cancer

NSW Launches Campaign to Protect Outdoor Workers from Skin Cancer

Cancer Institute NSW has launched a new campaign warning workers about dangers of skin cancer. People working outdoors face up to three times more sun exposure than indoor employees, making workplace safety measures essential for reducing long-term health risks.

The new video campaign, dubbed "Change Your Routine," reminds employers to put in place measures that protect outdoor workers from sun exposure. This initiative forms part of broader efforts to strengthen safe work method statements across industries where UV radiation poses a genuine occupational hazard.

Why UV Radiation Remains a Year-Round Risk

Cancer Institute NSW CEO Professor Tracey O'Brien says UV radiation cannot be seen or felt, but it remains present even during cold weather conditions.

"It's a misconception that UV radiation is only harmful during summer, with high UV index levels present in NSW from August to May," Professor O'Brien said.

"Ninety-five per cent of melanoma and 99% of non-melanoma skin cancers are caused by overexposure to UV radiation from the sun, and for those working in agriculture, construction, roads and our backyards, the risk of developing skin cancer is even greater."

Key Facts for Employers and Safety Professionals

• Outdoor workers experience significantly higher sun exposure than people employed indoors.
• High UV index levels persist across NSW between August and May, not just summer months.
• Melanoma and non-melanoma skin cancers are overwhelmingly linked to overexposure from the sun.
• Agriculture, construction and road work carry elevated risk due to prolonged outdoor duties.

These figures highlight why sun-related risks deserve the same attention as other occupational hazards. Employers across Australia are encouraged to review current practices and integrate sun safety into everyday operations, much like heat-related protections outlined in SafeWork's campaign for retail workers facing extreme heat.

Building Stronger Health and Safety Practices

Protecting staff from UV radiation requires more than awareness alone — it demands practical resources embedded into daily routines. Employers should consider scheduling outdoor tasks outside peak UV periods, providing shade structures, and ensuring protective clothing forms part of standard uniforms.

Businesses managing outdoor teams can strengthen their approach using structured documentation, such as an outdoor work standard operating procedure, alongside well-stocked outdoor first aid kits for on-site incidents.

These resources support broader health strategies already being adopted for other outdoor risks, including recent efforts to shield NSW workers from dust-related diseases and initiatives designed to protect workers from asbestos exposure through targeted training.

What This Means for Workplace Safety

This campaign reinforces a critical safety message: UV radiation exposure is preventable when businesses take proactive steps. Embedding sun awareness into routine safety planning protects long-term worker health while reducing melanoma risk across high-exposure industries.

Read more here.