Sun Exposure for Construction

 

Sun exposure can do major damage — sunburn, skin cancer, and cataracts. While the rays of the sun are more damaging during summer months and between 11 a.m. and 1 p.m., sunburns can occur during a cloudy day, other seasons, and other times of the day.

Melanoma (skin cancer)

Skin cancer developing in the pigment cells is called melanoma. It may spread to other parts of the body. In men, melanoma occurs most often on the trunk (between the shoulders and hips), head, and neck. In women, melanoma is often found on the arms and lower legs. It is found most often in people with fair skin. People with dark skin are more likely to have melanomas on the palms of the hands and soles of the feet.

What to look for:

·               A change in a mole's size, shape, or color;

·               Asymmetrical moles;

·               Moles with ragged, notched, or blurred edges;

·               Unevenly-colored moles; and

·               Moles that have changed in size.

These are signs that you should see your doctor.

Cataracts

This is a condition in which the eye’s lens fogs up so no matter how the eye tries to focus, it can't see through the foggy area. Age is a factor in developing cataracts, but so is exposure to ultraviolet radiation from the sun over time.

Eye drops, avoiding glare, proper prescription glasses can help, but usually surgery is the most effective treatment.

Sunburn

Prolonged exposure to ultraviolet radiation from the sun can produce sunburn. Symptoms include red, sensitive, inflamed skin, even blisters.

To relieve the pain, soak sunburns in cold water, dry the area, apply ointment, and cover. Seek medical treatment for severe sunburn. The only way to prevent sunburn is to avoid sun exposure (wear a hat, long sleeves, and sun­screen).