Sun protection is essential for everyone, but outdoor workers are especially prone to regular, prolonged sun exposure's harmful effects. Outdoor workers like contractors, gardeners, farmers, construction workers, and truck drivers are often exposed to sunlight all day. And when you're hard at work, it's not always easy to remember to protect your skin—but it's crucial. Here's what you need to know about sunscreen for construction workers and anyone who works outdoors.

The Importance of Sunscreen for Construction Workers

There's an established link between the sun's ultraviolet (UV) rays and skin damage. Too much sun can lead to sunburn, premature aging, and even skin cancer.

Since sun exposure isn't optional for outdoor workers, certain professions can increase the risk of occupational skin cancer. In fact, research estimates skin cancer risk is at least double for outdoor workers. An estimated one in three deaths from non-melanoma skin cancer is caused by working under the sun. This includes professions like construction workers, landscaping and agricultural workers, postal delivery workers, and anyone who works outside for hours at a time.

If you have an outdoor job, the importance of sun safety measures can't be overstated. Spending copious amounts of time in the sun, whether for personal or professional reasons, has serious health consequences. In addition to applying and reapplying sunscreen, you can take action to reduce your exposure and risk.

Young man taking care of his undereye wrinkles putting anti aging eye moisturizer. Handsome guy applying moisturizer and looking at himself while standing in front of the mirror in the bathroom.

Sun Safety Tips for Outdoor Workers

These tips are especially relevant to outdoor workers, who are at increased risk of skin cancer. However, practicing sun safety is important for everyone.

1. Seek Shaded Areas during Breaks

One of the best ways to reduce skin cancer risk is to avoid prolonged sun exposure, particularly when the sun is at its peak strength between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. This can be tricky if you don't choose your working hours.

Ideally, employers should find ways to provide shaded work environments, but this isn't always possible. Regain some control over your sun exposure by taking breaks in shaded areas, such as under a tent or canopy.

2. Start Work in the Early Morning

The sun's UV rays are strongest in the afternoon, which is why it's recommended to seek shade or stay indoors around noon. When the sun is high in the sky, it can do more damage, so the midday hours pose the highest risk. Unfortunately, these hours tend to fall in the middle of traditional workdays, putting outdoor workers directly in the afternoon sunlight.

If possible, start shifts earlier in the day to avoid the harsh afternoon sun and lower your risk of sun damage. The UV index is lower in the early morning, making it the prime time to schedule your outdoor shift.

3. Wear Protective Gear and Clothes

Here's what to wear to keep your skin covered and protected from head to toe while working outside:

  • Wide-brimmed hats with side panels
  • Sunglasses with UV-blocking lenses
  • Long-sleeved shirts
  • Pants or denim jeans
  • Shoes that cover your feet

When choosing your clothes, opt for darker colors with a tight-weave fabric. These are more effective than light colors and loose weaves. Denim is especially protective against the sun.

Cover up easy-to-miss areas, such as the scalp, eyes, and ears. A wide-brimmed hat with side panels protects all three. Sunglasses further protect your eyesight.

For even greater protection, look for clothes with an ultraviolet protection factor (UPF).

4. Apply and Reapply Sunscreen Diligently

Sunscreen is proven to reduce the risk of skin cancer. The key is to use it consistently, diligently, and properly.

When choosing a sunscreen, look for:

  • Broad-spectrum protection against UVA and UVB rays
  • SPF 30 or greater
  • Water resistance for up to 40 or 80 minutes

Remember to apply chemical sunscreen formulas 15 minutes before sun exposure, and reapply all sunscreens at least every two hours when working outside. The average adult needs about one full ounce to cover their entire body. So, apply sunscreen liberally, and remember the ears, eyelids, lips, scalp, and beard.

EltaMD UV Active Broad-Spectrum SPF 50+ is perfect for outdoor workers. It's water- and sweat-resistant for up to 80 minutes (the maximum water-resistance certification), formulated for the face and body, and uses physical sunscreen filters, making it suitable for sensitive skin. Swipe on a lip balm with SPF, too.

5. Schedule an Annual Skin Check

Everyone should visit the Dermatologist at least once a year for an annual skin check. This is when your Derm scans your skin for signs of skin cancer, such as suspicious growths or moles. This is extra important for outdoor workers due to increased risk. In the meantime, keep an eye on your skin and perform at-home skin checks.

Putting Outdoor Worker Sun Protection into Practice

Outdoor worker sun protection is an important but often overlooked aspect of workplace safety. If you or a loved one is an outdoor worker, it's time to build a healthy habit. Protecting your skin from the sun requires little effort, but the benefits down the road can be huge. Start by looking into the best formula for you, whether that's sunscreen for men or sunscreen for Black skin. This is one of the easiest, most effective ways to safeguard against sun damage.

Author

  • Lacey Muinos

    Lacey is a Southern California-based freelance writer who combines her passions—fitness, health, and a vegan lifestyle—with her work to help readers feel and be their best. Her work has been featured in Healthline, Livestrong, Verywell Fit, Eat This Not That, KinderBeauty, and more.

    View all posts