FAQs
- Does OSHA have guidelines regarding sun safety?
- Why should I be concerned about ultraviolet (UV) radiation?
- Are outdoor workers at a higher risk for developing skin cancer?
- What does SPF mean?
- Why do I get sunburned even when it's cloudy?
- Should I go out in the sun to get Vitamin D?
- Why do people get melanoma in areas of their body that are not exposed to the sun?
- How common are sunscreen allergies?
- How long will sunscreen last after I purchase it?
Does OSHA have guidelines regarding sun safety?
Yes, OSHA has a list of guidelines for sun safety precautions called Protecting Yourself in the Sun.
Why should I 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. UV radiation is on the same list that cigarettes and asbestos are on and can cause some very serious health concerns. The sun’s UV radiation can cause skin damage, eye damage and in some cases skin cancer.
Are outdoor workers at a higher risk for developing skin cancer?
Yes, outdoor workers receive 8 times more UV than indoor workers and have a 60% greater chance of developing skin cancer. However, outdoor workers are more likely to develop nonmelanoma skin cancer and indoor workers are more likely to develop melanoma skin cancer.
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.
Why do I 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.
Should I go out in the sun to get Vitamin D?
Experts recommend getting adequate vitamin D through vitamin supplementation or 5-15 minutes of incidental sun exposure (which can be accumulated before and after peak sun hours). If you are concerned with the amount of Vitamin D you are getting, try introducing some fortified foods into your diet like orange juice and milk. For more information, check out this article from the World Health Organization: Are There Beneficial Effects of UV Radiation?
Why do people get melanoma in areas of their body that are not exposed to the sun?
The skin is the largest organ in our bodies. Skin cancer can attack the melanocyte cells (moles) throughout this organ and manifest themselves anywhere.
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 you put sunscreen on, perform a test by dabbing a small amount on the back of your hand. If a rash or itching develops, a doctor or pharmacist can help recommend products that might be better for your skin.
How long will sunscreen last after I purchase it?
Unless the expiration date says otherwise, susncreen will typically last for two years. So, when you buy sunscreen write the date on the bottle with a permenant marker and dispose of it after two years.
If you have further questions you would like answered, send an email to the experts.
