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Outdoor workers at elevated skin cancer risk as HSA announces summer inspection and awareness raising campaign
Wednesday 6th May 2026
Over 11,000 new cases of skin cancer diagnosed each year
This week marks the start of the Health and Safety Authority’s (HSA) Sun Exposure Campaign, aimed at protecting outdoor workers from the harmful effects of ultraviolet (UV) radiation from the sun.
The campaign will run throughout the summer months, May to September 2026, combining national awareness raising activities with a targeted inspection programme. The HSA is urging employers to ensure practical protective measures are in place for workers who are exposed to UV from sunlight as part of their job, even on cloudy days or when overcast.
Outdoor workers, including those in construction, agriculture, quarries, utilities, transport and similar sectors, can be exposed to two to three times more UV radiation than indoor workers, particularly from now until the autumn when UV levels are highest.
Dr Adrienne Duff, Assistant Chief Executive, Occupational Health Division, HSA, said,
“Ultraviolet exposure represents a significant occupational health risk for many outdoor workers in Ireland and is one that employers are required to manage. Through our Sun Exposure Campaign, the HSA is reminding employers that they have a duty to assess UV exposure risks and put practical measures in place.”
“Our inspectors will be looking for evidence that these risks are being managed effectively, including, planning the work, monitoring the UV Index and taking appropriate protective measures when it reaches 3 or above, including access to shade, water, protective clothing and sunscreen, and making sure workers are informed. By taking simple, practical steps, employers can play a vital role in protecting workers’ health now and in the future”,
Dr Duff added.
Inspectors will assess whether employers:
- have considered UV exposure as part of their risk assessments,
- have taken steps to reduce exposure during peak UV times, and
- provide appropriate information, training and protective measures for workers.
The campaign aims to improve compliance, increase awareness and prevent long‑term harm among outdoor workers.
Maria McEnery, Cancer Prevention Officer from the HSE’s National Cancer Control Programme (NCCP) outlined,
“The risk of skin cancer increases with cumulative UV radiation exposure over time. Outdoor workers are therefore at particular risk due to the nature of their work and the extended periods they spend outdoors, especially during the summer months when UV levels are highest.”
Ms McEnery added,
“The increased UV levels can lead to sunburn, eye damage, and long-term risks such as skin cancer. implementation of SunSmart measures in the workplace is a critical component in protecting outdoor workers’ long‑term health so we are calling on all organisations with outdoor workers to prioritise UV protection as part of their employee safety and wellbeing policies. Resources are available to assist employers, including recently published guidance for outdoor workers who are drivers”.
Skin cancer is the most common cancer in Ireland, with over 11,000 new cases diagnosed each year and incident rates continue to rise, according to the National Cancer Registry of Ireland. Prolonged or unprotected exposure to UV radiation is the main risk factor.
UV radiation is measured using the UV Index, which indicates the risk of skin and eye damage. When the UV Index is 3 or above, protective measures should be taken, including wearing covering clothing, using sunscreen on uncovered skin, and seeking shade.
During the summer months in Ireland, UV levels frequently exceed this threshold, particularly between 11am and 3pm, especially from April to September.
Guidance is available at: