With the summer months fast approaching, all parts of the UK are starting to enjoy some sunshine on a regular basis. It’s always quite amusing to see a colleague come into work after a weekend with a bright red nose after spending too much time in the sun, but there is a serious side to excess sun exposure.
Health and safety specialist Safetyshop has called on all companies that employ people to work outdoors to make sure they take steps to help protect their workers from the effects of sun exposure this summer. Due to Britain’s climate, providing staff with suitable sun protection is often not a high priority for most businesses, but prolonged exposure to the sun’s harmful ultraviolet rays is a serious problem.
Employers are responsible for their employees’ health and safety at work, and when it comes to protection from the sun there are a number of steps that can be taken. Getting workers to cover up and avoid exposure at lunchtime – the hottest part of the day – is a good start. Providing access to sun screen with a sun protection factor of at least 15, and encouraging employees to wear workwear such as hats are also positive moves.
Safetyshop helps companies to look after their workforces by providing access to a huge range of products, but according to Bhavna Mistry, Product Manager at Safetyshop, a large number of companies remain oblivious to the dangers that the sun can pose.
Bhavna said: “The UK isn’t really known for its hot summers and blazing sunshine, which probably explains why businesses don’t always see the sun as a health and safety issue. However, people who work outside without sun protection are putting themselves at risk, and employers have a responsibility to act.
“With Safetyshop’s help, protecting workers against the sun’s rays is straightforward, which is why we are calling on all businesses to educate their
staff.”
Via EPR Network
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