Book: Health & Safety Overview Health & Safety Overview
Chapter: 5. Other environmental hazards
Section: Sunburn
Metadata: Details Buy this book

Sunburn is caused by over-exposure of the skin to the ultraviolet radiation in sunlight. It causes the familiar symptoms of skin reddening, soreness and blisters; it can also help create skin cancers. When it is windy and seems cool, sunburn may not be perceived and is then a particular problem.

  • Leaders/supervisors should check that volunteers are not becoming over-exposed.
  • People should remember the SLIP-SLAP-SLOP rule! Slip on a shirt, Slap on a hat, Slop on the sun cream, following the advice given to Australians.
  • Cool any affected area with water; don't burst blisters.

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