LTB348/15 CWU "Sun Smart-Skin Safe" Campaign 2015

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LTB348/15 CWU "Sun Smart-Skin Safe" Campaign 2015 - Look after your skin and stay safe in the sun!



No. 348/15


Ref E4/15


Date: 22 May 2015

To: All Branches

Dear Colleagues

CWU "Sun Smart-Skin Safe" Campaign 2015 - Look after your skin and stay safe in the sun!

We are once again approaching the hottest summer months and the Health, Safety &

Environment Department is taking the opportunity to warn members about the risk of Skin Cancer through sunlight/UV ray exposure and dehydration.

Here is some important advice regarding firstly following the 5 S's and secondly the message "early detection saves lives so act quickly and seek advice".

The FIVE S's of Sun Safety

The main cause of skin cancer is exposure to sunlight or sunbeds. Remember, it is not just sunbathing that puts people at risk, but just being in the sun without adequate protection. If you're an outdoor worker and/or take part in outdoor hobbies, activities or sport you will be at greater risk.

Sunburn increases the risk of Skin Cancer and a Sun Tan isn't healthy! It indicates that the skin has been damaged! And that damage stays there increasing the person's risk of skin cancer.

To keep safe and make sure you NEVER BURN you should follow the 5 S's of Sun Safety:-

1. SUNSCREEN Apply a good quality SPF 30+ sunscreen, with broad spectrum UVA protection - a minimum of 3* rating, making sure you use enough and reapply every 2 hours.
2. SUNHAT Always wear a broad-brimmed hat that shades your face, neck and ears.
3. SUNGLASSES Wear wrap-around sunglasses with UV protection to give your eyes adequate protection from the sun's rays.
4. SHOULDERS Wear clothing that is UV protective if possible and always try and keep your shoulders and body covered up.
5. SHADE Always seek shade whenever you can, particularly during the hottest time of the day between 11am-3pm and when you have breaks if your job keeps you out in it.

Early Detection

Detecting skin cancers early save lives - FACT! Particularly in the case of Melanoma, the deadliest form of the disease. It is important to check your skin regularly for signs of change, and consult your doctor immediately if you detect any changes particularly with moles, or if you're unsure of any unusual marks, patches, sores or spots, no matter how small they are - get the GP to check it out.

Look after your skin, stay safe in the sun! - Don't become a statistic and enjoy the sun SAFELY.

For further information about the prevention and early detection of skin cancer and to find out more see attached.

CWU "Sun Smart - Skin Safe" Safety Code Campaign Material

Branches and Regional Health and Safety Forums can additionally purchase the following materials from the Health, Safety & Environment Department:-

CWU "Sun Smart - Skin Safe" pocket fact cards - £56 per thousand plus P&P.

CWU "Sun Smart - Skin Safe" poster - £140 per thousand plus P&P.

Royal Mail/CWU/IOSH Joint Campaign

The RMG/CWU Sun Safety National Campaign was launched last month in conjunction with IOSH as part of their new "No Time To Loose - Work Cancer Campaign", Launched on the same day with Solar Radiation/Sun Safety/Skin Cancer being the first stage. New joint RMG/CWU/IOSH Sun Safety Pocket cards were distributed to all Royal Mail members and this was accompanied by a high profile Communications campaign. This was reported in detail in LTB 285/15.

Yours Sincerely

Dave Joyce
National Health, Safety & Environment Officer