What are the best ways to protect myself from sun exposure while working outside?

Best Ways to Protect Yourself from Sun Exposure While Working Outside

The most effective protection from sun damage involves multiple strategies including wearing tightly woven protective clothing covering arms, trunk, and legs, a wide-brimmed hat, seeking shade whenever possible, avoiding outdoor activities during peak sun hours (10 a.m.–4 p.m.), and using broad-spectrum sunscreen with SPF >15. 1

Comprehensive Sun Protection Strategy

Protective Clothing

• Wear tightly woven protective clothing that adequately covers arms, trunk, and legs 1
• Choose darker colors and natural cotton or Lycra™ fabrics which transmit less UV radiation 1
• Understand that wet or stretched fabric provides less protection 1
• Look for clothing with UV protection ratings when available 1

Headwear and Eye Protection

• Use wide-brimmed hats (>3-inch brim) or Legionnaire-style hats (with neck and ear flaps) for best protection 1
• Wear sunglasses that block 99% of UV-A and UV-B radiation 1
• Combine sunglasses with a wide-brimmed hat to reduce UV exposure to the face by 65% 1

Timing and Environmental Considerations

• Minimize exposure during peak UV hours (10 a.m.–4 p.m.), especially the 11 a.m.–1 p.m. period when UV rays are strongest 1
• Seek shade whenever possible, particularly during peak hours 1
• Be aware that UV exposure increases at locations closer to the equator, at higher altitudes, and when near reflective surfaces like pavement, water, snow, and sand 1

Proper Sunscreen Use

• Apply broad-spectrum sunscreen (protecting against both UV-A and UV-B) with SPF of at least 15, preferably 30+ 1, 2
• Apply sunscreen approximately 30 minutes before sun exposure 1
• Use about an ounce (a handful) to cover your entire body 1
• Apply to all exposed areas including ears, back, shoulders, and backs of knees and legs 1
• Reapply sunscreen every 2 hours and after swimming or excessive sweating 1, 2
• For outdoor workers, apply sunscreen often throughout the day 1

Important Cautions and Considerations

Sunscreen Selection Tips

• Choose waterproof formulations if you'll be sweating heavily 1
• Consider spray-on or stick types for easier application 1
• If you have sensitive skin, avoid products containing para-aminobenzoic acid (PABA) 1
• For oily or acne-prone skin, use water-based sunscreens 1
• Check expiration dates as sunscreen ingredients can degrade over time 1

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Do not rely solely on sunscreen for protection - this is a critical mistake 1, 2
• Sunscreen should complement other protective measures, not replace them 1
• Many outdoor workers incorrectly apply sunscreen, reducing its effectiveness 3
• Avoid tanning beds and sunlamps completely, as they are carcinogenic 1

Special Considerations for Outdoor Workers

• Outdoor workers have high levels of UV exposure and increased skin cancer risk 3, 4
• Studies show 50-80% of outdoor workers experience sunburn per season 5
• Many outdoor workers inadequately protect themselves, with 30-100% reporting they rarely or never use sunscreen 5
• Workplace support and policies significantly influence sun protection behaviors 6

Implementing Sun Safety at Work

• Request shade structures at work sites when possible 1
• Rotate tasks to minimize continuous sun exposure during peak hours
• Keep protective equipment (hats, sunglasses, sunscreen) readily available
• Understand that both individual attitudes and workplace support influence sun protection behaviors 6

By implementing these comprehensive sun protection strategies, you can significantly reduce your risk of sun damage, skin cancer, and other harmful effects of UV radiation while working outdoors.