It’s not ‘soft’ to be sun safe on the farm: managing the risks of UV exposure

Farmers and farmworkers have a well-earned reputation for being hardy people.

However, agriculture consistently has one of the highest rates of reported work-related injuries and deaths, with the actual figures being difficult to determine due to those in the industry being less likely to seek professional medical advice.

One issue is that some in the industry may consider sunscreen to be unnecessary or even “a bit soft”. Indeed, the “farmer’s tan” is well known and worn by some as a mark of pride.

However, the Health and Safety Executive is clear that a tan is a sign that the skin has been damaged – and UV exposure is not limited to the summer months.

Managing the risks

In an industry where outdoor work is the norm rather than the exception, it falls upon farmers to take steps to remove or reduce the risk of farmworkers suffering from the ill effects of sun exposure.

Under the Health and Safety at Work etc. Act 1974, employers must adequately inform and educate their employees about the risks, and implement systems to reduce those risks, such as the provision of personal protective equipment (PPE).

Practical steps employers can take

A simple way to raise awareness is to install a “sun safety board” in a place where farmworkers regularly gather, displaying the current UV level alongside practical guidance for sun safety.

Combined with measures such sunscreen, sun hats, long-sleeved clothing, shaded areas and drinking water, this provides a practical way of helping workers understand the risks of UV exposure and how to protect themselves. Most recommendations will be to use SPF 50 sunscreen with UVA and UVB protection.

Not just an outdoor hazard

It is important to remember that UV exposure does not just affect workers standing in fields. Those operating machinery or vehicles can also be exposed.

Both UVA and UVB rays can damage the skin and contribute to the development of skin cancer.

Ordinary glass largely blocks UVB, but UVA rays can penetrate certain types of glass. Farm equipment should therefore be checked when purchasing machinery or replacing broken windows.

It is also possible to be exposed to UV that does not originate from the sun. One example is exposure to UV from welding, in particular UVC rays created during arc welding.

Look at the long-term dangers

Safety standards in agriculture have improved, but there is still a long way to go. Much of the attention has been rightly focused on vehicles, machinery, livestock and working at height; however, long-term risks such as UV exposure should not be overlooked.

For more advice and guidance on this or any other workplace health and safety issue, you can call me on 01482 337296, email [email protected] or visit wilkinchapmanrollits.co.uk