Australia has one of the highest rates of skin cancer in the world. This is largely due to the country’s high levels of ultraviolet (UV) radiation, which increases the risk of developing skin cancer. For those who work outdoors and are frequently exposed to sunlight for extended periods, the risk of skin cancer is further heightened. 

Jobs with the Highest Risk of Skin Cancer 

According to statistics, less than 10% of construction and agriculture workers are protected from harmful UV rays whilst on the job. Within the construction industry, 86% of workers are exposed to UV radiation, but only 7% receive adequate protection. 

Similarly, in agriculture, while 99% of workers face extensive UV exposure, approximately only 10% are properly safeguarded through the use of UV-protective clothing, regular breaks in shaded areas, and optimal use of sunscreen. 

The most common Australian occupations that face significant UV radiation and consequently are at a higher risk of developing skin cancer include: 

• Construction Workers: During high-risk hours of 10am to 2pm, construction workers spending long hours working on roads, scaffolding, or roofs are exposed to significant UV radiation. At the peak of Australian summer, a sunburn can develop within just 15 minutes of sun exposure and in the long-run, daily, continuous exposure can lead to severe skin damage. 
• Miners: Miners who work on the surface, especially in open-pit mining, experience prolonged exposure to UV rays. Likewise, some mining activities involve substances such as dust and chemicals that can react with UV light and increase the risk of skin cancer. 
• Agriculture Workers: Due to agricultural work taking place in open fields where there is little to no shade, workers are exposed to intense UV radiation. Regions such as the Northern Territory and Western Australia often have higher radiation levels due to the hotter climate, increasing the risk of skin cancer due to the combination of heat and sun exposure. 
• Water-based Workers: Those involved in maritime activities, fishing, or water sports face an elevated risk of skin cancer as UV rays are reflected off water surfaces, increasing overall UV exposure, even on cloudy days. 
• Public Safety Professionals: Police officers, firefighters, and defense workers face a heightened risk of skin cancer as their roles often involve working during peak sunlight hours within multiple environments, each presenting ranging levels of UV exposure. 
• Transportation Workers: Workers including truck drivers, bus drivers, and railway workers spend extended hours in vehicles with little to no UV protection. Exposure through vehicle windows and certain outdoor tasks subject workers to direct sunlight and UV radiation. 
• Office Workers: While office workers face a lower risk compared to those who work outdoors, they are still at risk of exposure to UV radiation from fluorescent lights, through windows, and during work commutes. 

Importance of Workplace Skin Cancer Checks 

Due to the avenue of jobs at a heightened risk of skin cancer, it is important to conduct regular workplace skin cancer checks to ensure early detection and timely intervention. By identifying any skin changes or abnormalities early on, prompt medical evaluation and treatment can take place. 

Corporate skin checks offer several benefits including: 

• Early detection of potential skin issues, including skin cancer. 
• Skin examinations. 
• Recognising individual risk factors.
• Specialist referrals.
• Access to relevant preventative information. 
• Privacy and confidentiality.
• A safe and healthy workplace and workforce. 

For more information on skin checks in the workplace, head over to Biz Health’s quick facts page. 

Concerned that your Workforce has a High Risk of Skin Cancer? 

If you are concerned that your workforce may be at elevated risk of skin cancer, it’s crucial to assess the specific factors contributing to this risk. Implementing regular skin assessments, providing adequate sun protection gear alongside education on the impacts of prolonged UV exposure can help employees understand and mitigate their likelihood of skin cancer. 

At BizHealth, our team of skilled and experienced medical professionals can help you perform these skin checks, offering on-site sun safety inspections, private consultations with a physician, and informative discussions on skin cancer awareness and risk management. In the long-run, regular workplace skin checks can reduce skin cancer risk among workers in Australia. 

Create a Healthy Workplace with BizHealth 

BizHealth is dedicated to enhancing workplace safety and well-being by providing comprehensive and convenient health and safety solutions. We can help you conduct regular skin assessments and provide additional follow-up resources that will ensure long-term protection and care for your workforce. 

By entrusting us, rest assured that your workforce will receive expert care, personalised guidance, and essential measures to manage and mitigate health risks related to UV exposure. Keen on partnering with us? Contact us today for more information on how you can protect your workforce.