16 July 2022

Farmers encouraged to view new SunSmart video

Working outdoors for long period’s means farmers are one of the highest risk groups for skin cancer. High temperatures are predicted over the next few days. Teagasc encourages farmers to watch the SunSmart video. Read also details on Healthy Ireland SunSmart steps for farmers.

HSE

CSO figures from 2018 suggest that almost one in four (26.6%) of skin cancer deaths in Ireland are from the construction, outdoor and farming industry. One death every week in Ireland is related to sun exposure at work. Research by Dr Breda Smyth MD indicates that farmers have 3 times higher cancer mortality than blue/white collar workers, with skin cancer being a major source.

SunSmart Video

The HSE ‘s National Cancer Control Programme in collaboration with Healthy Ireland and cross-sectoral partners is supporting outdoor workers to be SunSmart to avoid skin cancer. This group working in collaboration with Met Eireann and the Health Innovation Hub developed an animation video on how outdoor workers can be SunSmart.

Watch the SunSmart video below

The Healthy Ireland SunSmart steps show outdoor workers how they can protect their skin from the sun’s UV rays and reduce their risk of developing skin cancer.

Slip on clothing that covers your skin such as, long sleeves, collared t-shirts
Slop on sunscreen: Use sunscreen SPF minimum 30 or higher. Apply 20 minutes before going outside and re-apply every two hours – more often if perspiring.
Slap on a wide brimmed hat
Seek Shade – especially if outdoors between 11am to 3pm when UV rays are at their strongest. If possible schedule outdoor work before 11am or after 3pm.
Slide on wraparound sunglasses

Check Skin/ Contact GP

Check your skin regularly for changes and contact your GP if you notice changes such as a lump or discoloured patch on the skin. Look out for new growth or a sore that does not heal in a few weeks, a spot or sore that itches, hurts, crusts, scabs or bleeds, constant skin ulcers with no other explanation for their cause and new or changing moles.

More Sun Smart Information

For more information check out the SunSmart hub at hse.ie and #SunSmart on social and met.ie/uv-index to learn more about the UV index.

In 2021 Teagasc hosted a sun safety webinar for farmers.

Watch Teagasc SunSmart webinar below

Get specific 'Be Sumer Ready' advice for you and your farm

Farm Safety Week 2022 takes place from Monday 18 to Friday 22 July. | Check in with Teagasc Daily from Monday 18 to Friday 22 July for the latest updates on Farm Safety Week.