Sun protection for construction workers: This is how Erding's outdoor professionals protect themselves!

Sun protection for construction workers: This is how Erding's outdoor professionals protect themselves!

In the Erding district, IG Bau Oberbayern causes a stir by calling up companies to develop a well thought -out plan for sun protection for their employees. Professions that often work in the open air are particularly affected, such as construction workers, roofers, gardeners and landscapers and harvest helpers. These professional groups are exposed to high UV radiation, which can result not only sunburn, but also lengthy health problems such as skin cancer. A article by Ed-Live shows that a comprehensive sun protection program includes many aspects.

That is why IG Bau demands that employers regularly plan drinking breaks, provide a glass of water or cold tea for their employees every 15 to 20 minutes and make sure that their employees apply sunscreen with a high sun protection factor - at least SPSF 50 - every two hours. A water and sunscreen flat rate could be a good incentive here. UV-blocking clothing is also of great importance; The skin of the employees should be as well covered as possible.

protective measures and clarification

But what exactly can companies do to minimize the exposure of their employees compared to UV rays? Enlightenment about the dangers of UV radiation is essential. According to the Portal of the German Statutory Accident Insurance, all sun protection measures should be integrated into the company's risk assessment, especially for employees that are exposed to more than 15 minutes of direct sunlight. A comprehensive prevention concept should include technical, organizational and personal measures.

Technical measures could be shading such as sun sails or roofs, which are provided for both work and break spaces. Organizationally, it would make sense to move physically exhausting work to the cooler morning hours and regularly take breaks in the shade. The stay in direct sunlight in particular should be avoided between 12 p.m. and 2 p.m.

personal protection and health risks

In addition, the professional association for health services and welfare care is recommended, such as air-permeable construction workers with neck protection and UV protective glasses. Another important step is the regular use of sunscreen, which should only be used as a last measure if other protective measures are inadequate. Climate change also leads to an increase in the sunny days, which increases the probability of excessive UV radiation and the associated diseases such as premature skin aging or even skin cancer.

These measures are not only important for the health of employees, but also for the economy of companies. A healthy employee is a productive employee. Therefore, companies should show good hands and take the security of their employees seriously. By providing information, training and the right protection, many health risks that are connected to the outdoor work can effectively reduce. The UV index of the Federal Office for Radiation Protection App also provides valuable information about the necessary intensity of protective measures.