FAQs
- Should schools be concerned about ultraviolet (UV) radiation?
- What does SPF mean?
- Is teaching sun safety important?
- Do I need to reapply water-resistant sunscreen after my students go swimming?
- Why do students get sunburned even when it's cloudy?
- How common are sunscreen allergies?
Should schools be concerned about ultraviolet (UV) radiation?
UV radiation is recognized by Congress, the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA), the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and other agencies as a know human carcinogen. Schools have taken steps to minimize exposure to other harmful substances such as asbestos, radon and lead on school grounds and UV radiation should be no different. The sun’s UV radiation presents both a recreational and occupational hazard to students and staff so steps should be taken to prevent overexposure. Educating students and staff members about sun safety may help reduce possible liabilities in the future.
What does SPF mean?
SPF stands for Sun Protection Factor. Something that many people are unaware of is that SPF is a greater predictor of the length of protection rather than the strength of protection. To find out more visit the Sunscreen section.
Is teaching sun safety important?
Yes, teaching sun safety to students provides them with the knowledge and skills they need to make health conscious choices when spending time in the sun. Given the large percentage of time that students spend outdoors, it is important to teach sun safety and to reinforce the messages throughout the year.
Do I need to reapply water-resistant sunscreen after my students go swimming?
Yes. It is very important to reapply sunscreen after you get wet, whether in a pool, running through the sprinkler or sweating a lot at soccer practice, even water-resistant sunscreens. Also, remember to reapply every two hours to keep the sunscreen potent.
Why do students get sunburned even when it's cloudy?
Clouds only block 20-40% of damaging UV rays. That means that as much as 80% of UV rays reach your skin even on cloudy days. Check the UV Index for a reading of the day’s UV forecast to help you plan for a sun safe day. The UV Index can be found in your local newspaper or you can check the UV index in your area by inserting your zip code.
How common are sunscreen allergies?
Fortunately, allergic reaction to sunscreen is very uncommon and, if one does occur, it is generally a minor reversible skin rash. Less than 1% of people have some reaction to some ingredients in certain sunscreens. Hypoallergenic and fragrance-free products are good choices especially for people already known to have skin allergies. PABA which was responsible for many people’s allergic reaction has been removed from most sunscreens.
Before a teacher puts sunscreen on their student, they should check with the student's parents about possible allergies.
