Which professions rank high for sun exposure?

There are certain professions that rank high for sun exposure. Excessive sun exposure can significantly increase the risk of developing skin cancer, particularly for individuals in certain professions where outdoor work is a primary component. The following careers require prolonged exposure to the sun’s harmful ultraviolet (UV) radiation, putting workers at a higher risk for skin damage and skin cancer.

1. Construction Workers. Construction sites often lack sufficient shade, and workers spend long hours outdoors exposed to direct sunlight. Roofers, in particular, are at high risk due to their elevated positions and reflective surfaces that intensify UV exposure.
2. Farmers and Agricultural Workers. Tending to crops and livestock often involves prolonged outdoor activities, leaving farmers vulnerable to UV radiation. Fields typically lack shade, and protective clothing may be impractical for some tasks.
3. Landscapers and Gardeners. These professionals spend their days working under the sun, planting, pruning, and maintaining outdoor spaces. The nature of their work requires prolonged exposure to UV radiation without adequate protection.
4. Fishermen. Spending hours on open water exposes fishermen to intense sunlight, with minimal protection from shade. Reflections off the water surface can further increase UV exposure, particularly in regions closer to the equator.
5. Outdoor Sports Coaches and Athletes. Sports such as tennis, golf, and athletics often involve outdoor training and competitions. Coaches and athletes may spend extended periods exposed to the sun without adequate protection, increasing their risk of skin cancer.
6. Lifeguards. While safeguarding swimmers, lifeguards are constantly exposed to the sun’s rays, often without protective clothing due to the nature of their job. The combination of intense sunlight and reflective water surfaces poses a significant risk.
7. Postal Workers and Couriers. Delivery personnel spend a considerable amount of time outdoors, walking or driving routes under the sun. Limited access to shade and the necessity of timely deliveries can increase their UV exposure.
8. Pilots. Pilots spend long hours flying at high altitudes where UV radiation is more intense. While inside the cockpit, they may be exposed to UV radiation that penetrates through aircraft windows, especially if the windows are not treated to block UV rays. Additionally, during layovers or breaks, pilots may spend time outdoors on tarmacs or in airport environments, further increasing their UV exposure.
9. Truck Drivers. Truck drivers often spend extended periods driving long distances, frequently with exposure to sunlight through the vehicle’s windows. While the glass can block some UV radiation, prolonged exposure over many years can still contribute to skin damage and increase the risk of skin cancer. Furthermore, truck drivers may spend time loading or unloading cargo outdoors, adding to their cumulative UV exposure.

Read more about sun safety for outdoor employees.

Outdoor employees should take precautions to protect themselves from excessive sun exposure. This may include wearing sunscreen with a SPF30+, wearing protective clothing such as long sleeves and hats with wide brims, using sunglasses with UV protection, and seeking shade during breaks whenever possible. Regular skin checks and visits to skin specialists can also help detect any signs of skin cancer early.