Marley reminds workers to stay safe in the sun

Marley, a roof systems manufacturer, is reiterating the message that all outdoor workers should protect themselves from the harmful effects of UV rays.

The manufacturers “safe in the sun” campaign has been running since 2004 and this year contractors have the chance to enter a prize draw to win £500 worth of Amazon vouchers, they are also giving away free sachets of sun cream.

Daniel Redfern, marketing manager at Marley, comments: “The ongoing importance of the ‘Safe in the Sun’ campaign cannot be underestimated. Losing people each year because of the damaging impact of the sun is a stark reminder of the need to be constantly aware of the dangers of the outdoors, and to take protective measures when working outside for prolonged periods.

“We are committed to supporting the construction industry so that workers are fully aware of the risks and the simple things they can do to mitigate them. As part of the 2023 campaign, we are also providing free sachets of sun cream to workers who apply for them.”

Recent research from Nottingham University, has found that most of those surveyed from the construction sector said they did not take measures to protect themselves against sun exposure, mainly because they did not think the UK climate posed a high risk of skin cancer.

Each year there are more than 1,500 new cases of work-related non-melanoma skin cancer. A report from IOSH found that nine in 10 skin cancer deaths could be prevented if precautions were made.

Marley have also given some guidance for outdoor workers to use:

• Keep a shirt or jacket on and opt for tightly woven fabrics, which help to form a barrier to the sun’s harmful rays.
• Don’t leave exposed skin unprotected. Use sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30 and remember to reapply regularly.
• Wear a hard hat at all times, preferably with a brim and flap that will cover the ears and the back of the neck.
• Drink plenty of water and stay hydrated.
• Check your skin regularly for unusual spots and moles, or changes to spots and moles.

• Wear safety sunglasses with a UV 400 rating to not only protect eyes from harmful UV rays, but also increase comfort levels when working in bright conditions.
• Check that eye protection is certified in line with EN 166 (personal eye protection) and EN 172 (sun glare filters for industrial use).