Sun-related knowledge and practices in Irish construction and agricultural workers

• Published in: Occupational medicine (Oxford) Vol. 74; no. 5; pp. 378 - 385
• Main Authors: Hogan, V, Hogan, M, Kirwan, O, Langan Walsh, C, McLaughlin, C, Moynihan, Á, Connolly, A, Walsh, J, Coggins, M
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: English
• Published: UK Oxford University Press 29.07.2024
• Subjects: Original Papers
• ISSN: 0962-7480; 1471-8405; 1471-8405
• DOI: 10.1093/occmed/kqae042

Abstract Background Agricultural and construction workers spend much of their work time outdoors and have higher risks of developing skin cancer when compared to indoor workers. However, there is limited research on ultraviolet radiation (UVR) exposure knowledge, sun safety practices and constraints within these occupational groups in Ireland. Aims This study aimed to examine self-reported time spent outdoors in a sample of Irish agricultural and construction workers; to describe and compare UVR exposure knowledge, safety practices and perceived constraints in both occupational groups, and to assess the association of demographic, personal and occupational factors with sun-related knowledge, practices and perceived constraints. Methods Agricultural workers (n = 154) and construction workers (n = 467) completed a questionnaire, which measured solar UVR exposure knowledge, safety practices, and perceived constraints to sun personal protective equipment and sunscreen use in addition to demographic, personal, and workplace characteristics. Mann–Whitney and Kruskal–Wallis tests were used to examine differences in knowledge, practices and perceived constraints by these characteristics. Results Both groups spend a significant proportion of their working week outdoors (25 hours per week on average). Although participation in sun safety training was high for both groups, UVR exposure knowledge and sunscreen use were low, and annual rates of reported sunburn were high. Knowledge, practices and perceived constraints also differed significantly according to demographic, personal, occupational and workplace characteristics. Conclusions In addition to training by employers and advisory groups, interventions are required to address perceived barriers that impede the uptake and usage of control measures that can lower risk. This study reports results from a survey of sun safety knowledge and practice among Irish construction and agricultural workers. Across both sectors, workers spend an average of 25 hours outdoors. Most workers received sun safety training, but sunscreen application and use of sun-protective clothing are low. Awareness of measures such as the ultraviolet index or sun protection factor is low. Interventions to promote safe sun behaviours must address constraints to the use of protective measures.