19.07.2011

UK cover up this summer

Britain’s 2.4 million construction workers have been warned to “cover up and slap on the sun block” this summer by the Society of Occupational Medicine. The warning comes as new research shows that skin cancer in construction workers could be as common as asbestos-related disease.
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Construction workers warned to cover up this summer.

Researchers from the University of Manchester found that some construction workers were up to nine times more likely to get skin cancer than other workers from a similar social group and background. They have a higher risk due to long periods working outside in direct sunlight and Ultraviolet rays reflected from nearby surfaces such as concrete. The study also reveals that labourers in building and construction trades have significantly increased incidence of other health conditions because of their work compared with other workers.

“Neglecting to cover up under the hot sun can be just as dangerous as forgetting to wear a hard hat,” said Dr Henry Goodall, president of the Society of Occupational Medicine. ”We need to send a clear message that the days of the topless builder are over. Skin cancer may take several years to develop and it is often a young person’s disease, which can devastate a young family.”
Dr Raymond Agius, who led the research team, said “Construction workers are an important focus of our research. Many are unaware that their work can put their health at risk of a whole range of conditions including asbestos induced tumours, serious skin conditions and skin cancer.”

The Society of Occupational Medicine whose Journal published the study claimed that by prioritising and targeting employees who work in the construction sector with preventive measures, lives can be saved. “Workers in the construction industry suffer from a lack of occupational health provision and this also needs to be addressed and improved,” claimed Dr Goodall.

“This study shows that there is a clear benefit to promoting simple sun safety measures to construction workers. Our study has found that younger men, in particular, need to be educated. Construction companies should engage with their workers to promote sun protection behaviours,” said Mr Madgwick who conducted this research.

NHS statistics show that the number of people suffering from skin cancer has risen dramatically over the past 30 years.