What risks does solar radiation pose?
The sun emits radiation that includes an ultraviolet component capable of affecting the skin and eyes. Exposure can cause immediate damage and contribute to long-term problems. In outdoor activities, the intensity, duration, and frequency of exposure are all important factors throughout one’s working life.
This fact sheet addresses a natural source, distinct from artificial optical radiation from equipment or processes. Sharing some effects does not mean that every specific regulation for artificial sources automatically applies to the sun. The preventive assessment must correctly identify the source and select the appropriate obligations and measures.
Difference between ultraviolet radiation and heat
Ultraviolet radiation is not perceived as heat. A cool day can have a significant level of exposure, and the presence of clouds does not necessarily eliminate the risk. Therefore, ambient temperature or a feeling of comfort are not sufficient criteria to determine whether skin and eyes need protection.
Heat stress requires its own specific measures and can coexist with sun exposure. Drinking water and resting help manage heat, but they don’t block ultraviolet radiation. Likewise, even adequate sun protection doesn’t allow for excessive exertion in a dangerously hot environment. Both factors must be considered in conjunction with each other and not confused with one another.
Evaluate tasks and exposure conditions
The assessment should identify which tasks are performed outdoors, their duration, and the times of day. Season, latitude, altitude, and surfaces that reflect radiation, such as water or snow, should be considered. The ultraviolet index helps anticipate conditions, but it does not replace an analysis of actual work positions and times.
Exposed body areas and protective measures should also be reviewed. A person working in a bent-over position may leave their neck and back exposed, even if they are wearing clothing that appears sufficient for standing. Observing the task and involving those performing it allows these details to be identified before selecting appropriate measures and equipment.
Shade and work organization
The priority is to reduce exposure through shelters, shade, and organization compatible with the activity. It may be necessary to redistribute tasks, place workstations in sheltered areas, or avoid periods of peak solar intensity where feasible. Solutions must consider the entire route and auxiliary work areas, as well as the areas where people spend the most time.
A shade structure must be stable and appropriate to the environment, without creating risks from wind, falling debris, or interference. Planning must ensure it can actually be used and is not too far from the work area. If the sun’s position, the task, or the location changes, the effective protection it provides throughout the workday must be reviewed.
Skin and eye protection
Clothing must provide adequate coverage and be compatible with other risks, mobility, and heat control. Head and neck protection must be compatible with mandatory equipment such as helmets, using suitable solutions. For eye protection, goggles with UV protection and features appropriate to the task must be selected, not just dark lenses.
Broad-spectrum sunscreen should be used on areas that cannot be covered, following the instructions and reapplying as needed. The WHO recommends a sun protection factor (SPF) of at least 30. Sunscreen should not be used to prolong sun exposure or replace shade, clothing, and proper sun protection. Its availability and effective use should be facilitated.
Practical example
A team is performing maintenance near a body of water on a mild day. Because they don’t feel intense heat, some people stop using sun protection and remain exposed for several hours. The examination identifies direct and reflected radiation, as well as areas of the neck and face that are left uncovered during certain postures.
The plan reorganizes the work area and combines shade, clothing, and compatible eye protection. Information on the ultraviolet index is provided, and protection for exposed areas is made available. This example shows that deciding solely on temperature or cloud cover can leave significant sun exposure unchecked.
Health information and surveillance
The information should explain risks, safety measures, and equipment use without presenting tanning as sufficient protection. It should include instructions for replacing clothing and products, caring for goggles, and reporting any difficulties. Protective equipment should be selected based on the assessment and kept in good working order.
Health monitoring must be tailored to the exposure and relevant health criteria. Concerning skin or eye changes require professional consultation; the company should not substitute informal inspections or collect clinical images without justification. Information needed to adapt work must be managed while preserving confidentiality.
Common mistakes
Common mistakes include only protecting yourself in summer, relying on dark lenses without knowing their filtration capacity, or using sunscreen as the sole measure. It’s also a mistake to choose clothing that significantly increases heat stress without considering compatible alternatives, or to assume that a shaded area eliminates all reflected radiation.
Prevention requires a consistent and sustained approach. Conditions must be reviewed whenever tasks, locations, or equipment change, and it must be verified that the measures are used throughout the entire exposure. The goal is to reduce cumulative risk and immediate harm by integrating sun protection with overall outdoor work safety.
