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Reduce skin cancer risk with sun protection

7 February 2023

The sun’s ultraviolet (UV) radiation is a serious health and safety hazard – especially for people who work outdoors.

Australia has some of the highest levels of UV radiation in the world and daily UV exposure adds up to increase your risk of cancer. 

The sooner skin cancer is found, the easier it is to treat.

The best way to ensure skin cancer is found early is to get to know your skin and what’s normal for you.

Any changes, including new spots, or changes in shape, colour or size of an existing spot, should be checked by your GP.

Most skin cancers are found by people checking their own skin or are noticed by a loved one.

Get to know your skin and, if you notice anything unusual, visit an Australian Skin Cancer Clinics location near you as soon as possible.

Skin cancer can appear as:

  • a new or unusual looking spot including a lump or sore which doesn’t heal or may bleed
  • an existing spot that has changed in colour, size or shape.

The main cause of skin cancer is over exposure to UV radiation. You can reduce your risk by using sun protection.

When working in conditions where you are exposed to direct and filtered sun, remember to
SLIP, SLOP, SLAP, SEEK and SLIDE:

  • Slip on clothing
  • Slop on SPF30+ sunscreen
  • Slap on a hat
  • Seek shade
  • Slide on sunglasses

Sun protection should be used all year round when working outdoors. Protect yourself from the damaging effects of UV by wearing appropriate clothing, and start each day by applying sunscreen and remembering to reapply at each break during the day.

For more details, visit SunSmart.

Safety