With rainy spells not uncommon throughout the summer months, the UK’s roofers often choose to work throughout the day to make up for the periods when they can’t work, even when the sun is at its hottest. This puts them at greater risk than most from the harmful effects of the Sun, says Marley Eternit.
“If the air temperature is 18°C, the temperature of a typical elevated roof surface exposed to direct sunlight, can easily reach 32°C”, says Sarah Hanlon from Marley Eternit.
“With temperatures in some places reaching 10°C higher than this already in May and the sunny spell set to continue this summer, it is likely that roof temperatures will hit an even higher temperature. It’s not uncommon for roof temperatures to reach 60°C”.
Figures from Cancer Research UK show that for men, the trunk is the area of the body at most risk of suffering malignant melanoma, a type of skin cancer. 38% of reported cases in males are on the trunk of the body, with a further 22% on the head and neck and 17% on the arms. With these areas of the body often left exposed in the summer sun, it is important that roofers take some simple steps to make sure they are protected:
• Keep your top on and opt for tightly woven fabrics which help to form a barrier to the sun’s harmful rays.
• Don’t leave exposed skin unprotected. Use sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30 and remember to reapply regularly.
• Wear a hat at all times. If you aren’t wearing a hard hat, wear a hat or cap with a skip that will also cover the ears and the back of the neck.
• Drink plenty of water to avoid dehydration
• Take regular breaks in the shade if you can
• Check your skin regularly for unusual spots and moles or changes to spots and moles
• Don’t try to get a tan and don’t let yourself get burnt – it indicates you have damaged your skin
Rebecca Freeman of the British Association of Dermatologists said: “Unfortunately, by the very nature of their work, roofers are at higher risk of skin cancer than many other professions, because of the amount of time spent outdoors in the sun.
“When it’s hot, it’s tempting to strip off to cool down. But without any fabric to protect the skin, you can easily burn, which greatly increases your chances of developing melanoma – the deadliest type of skin cancer. Sunscreen can help, but use a water resistant formula so it doesn’t come off when you sweat, and make sure you reapply it at least every two hours.”