Sun protection in the Wartburg district: employers have a duty!

Sun protection in the Wartburg district: employers have a duty!

The sun is shining, temperatures are rising, and summertime is attracting many people outside - especially those who work in outdoor jobs. In the Wartburg district there is now a special call from the Construction-Agrar-Environment Industrial Union (IG BAU) for a “summer protection mode”. This is aimed at employers who need to develop a comprehensive sun protection plan for their employees.

Ralf Eckardt from IG BAU Thuringia emphasizes the urgency of the measure: “Sun protection is essential!” Occupational groups that are particularly at risk, such as construction workers, roofers, gardeners and landscapers, and harvest workers, are called upon to improve their working conditions. Employers are encouraged to offer a water and sunscreen flat rate to ensure their employees can drink and apply sunscreen regularly.

Important measures for sun protection

A clear plan for sun protection is essential. The union has raised some important points in this regard. Regular drinking breaks are essential; A full glass of water or cold tea should be available every 15 to 20 minutes. It is also necessary to apply sunscreen with a high sun protection factor, ideally SPF 50+, although reapplying every two hours is recommended.

But it's not just sunscreen and water that play a role. The right clothing also protects. For example, UV-blocking clothing is important, as are air-permeable hardhats with neck protection. Sunglasses should be part of “UV work protective clothing”. Staying in the shade during the most dangerous hours of sunshine between 12 p.m. and 2 p.m. can also avoid serious health consequences.

Understand health risks

The dangers of UV radiation are diverse. They range from sunburn to eye damage and heat stroke to serious illnesses such as skin cancer. According to the German Statutory Accident Insurance (DGUV), it is crucial that employers include appropriate protective measures in their risk assessment, especially for employees who are exposed to direct sun for more than 15 minutes. Technical and organizational measures should be implemented in combination with personal protection.

The prevention principle, which includes technical, organizational and personal measures, is the basis of every security strategy. Shading and shady places for breaks are important technical measures, while organizational precautions such as avoiding long periods of exposure to strong sunlight between 10 a.m. and 3 p.m. are considered urgent.

The BGW makes clear recommendations: activities should be shifted to the cooler morning hours and regular breaks should be taken. The experts also recommend providing suitable material such as suitable protective clothing and ensuring that staff are familiar with sun and skin-protecting products.

Health risks from UV radiation and the increase in sunny days due to climate change are increasing workers' exposure. An increase in skin cancer cases over the last 20 years is alarming and requires rapid action and comprehensive protective measures. Employee health should always come first and companies are required to do their part.

Information about UV radiation and protective measures is available on the DGUV and the portals [BGW]. Employers are well advised to observe the legal requirements and obtain comprehensive information in order not only to ensure occupational safety, but also to ensure the long-term well-being of their employees.

It is all the more important that companies in the Wartburg district and beyond take action to follow the recommendations of IG BAU. A well-executed strategy not only represents a legal obligation, but also protects a company's most valuable resource: its employees.