Thinkstock
Image

Summer Safety: Survey Reveals Only 18 Percent of Outdoor Workers Always Wear Sunscreen at Work

May 4, 2016
More than 8,000 people are diagnosed with skin cancer every day, but something as simple as sunscreen can save employees' lives.

The American Academy of Dermatology estimates that more than 8,500 people in the U.S. are diagnosed with skin cancer every day. The most effective way for workers to protect themselves from contracting skin cancer is to practice sun safety when outdoors.

A new survey commissioned by Deb Group and conducted online by Harris Poll examines the sunscreen habits among employees ages 18 and older who work outdoors at least half the time. The study found that only 18 percent of outdoor workers always wear sunscreen at work.

“There are very real dangers associated with sun exposure that are often overlooked in the workplace,” said Isabelle Faivre, vice president of marketing, Deb North America. “Outdoor workers are at a higher risk of developing skin cancer and other ailments related to increased sun exposure. Organizations should educate outdoor workers on proper sun protection and provide sunscreen for use daily.”

The study found that more than half (58 percent) of outdoor workers say they always or sometimes see a need to wear sunscreen at work. However, 71 percent of outdoor workers say their employers don’t provide sunscreen to them for use at work. Perhaps that is why 59 percent of outdoor workers always or sometimes bring their own sunscreen to work.

Deb Group is campaigning to raise awareness of the risks associated with prolonged UV exposure to those who spend a significant amount of time outside as part of their job, and has a collection of educational materials for managers and employees to implement an effective sun safety program.

About the Author

Sandy Smith

Sandy Smith is the former content director of EHS Today, and is currently the EHSQ content & community lead at Intelex Technologies Inc. She has written about occupational safety and health and environmental issues since 1990.

Sponsored Recommendations

Avetta Named a Leader in The Verdantix Green Quadrant: Supply Chain Sustainability Software 2024

Nov. 26, 2024
Avetta was named a leader by Verdantix in a 2024 sustainability software report for our ability to help clients and suppliers build sustainable supply chains.

Avetta is a Leader in Supply Chain Sustainability Software

Nov. 26, 2024
Verdantix has named Avetta a leader in its 2024 Green Quadrant for Supply Chain Sustainability Software. Download the report for independent insights into market trends and top...

The Power of Benchmarking in Procurement: Driving Success and Strategic Planning

Nov. 26, 2024
Explore the strategic impact of benchmarking in procurement to drive success and plan effectively.

The Five Eras of Safety Maturity

Nov. 26, 2024
Discover the 5 Eras of Safety Maturity, from reactive measures to data-driven assurance, and how organizations can evolve toward proactive safety cultures.

Voice your opinion!

To join the conversation, and become an exclusive member of EHS Today, create an account today!