Trade Professionals Urged to Stay ‘Skin Cancer Safe’

Werner, the leading global manufacturer of ladders and access equipment, is urging trade professionals to stay ‘skin cancer safe’ as part of May’s Skin Cancer Awareness Month.

The campaign follows findings from a 2024 study by the Health and Safety Executive (HSE), which identified construction workers as a significant at-risk group for developing skin cancer due to prolonged exposure to ultraviolet radiation (UVR) from natural sunlight.

Stay Skin Cancer Safe

With many trade professionals spending long hours working outdoors, Werner is encouraging professionals to make sun protection part of their everyday routine, regardless of the season or weather conditions.

Sunscreen, also known as SPF, should be worn all year round – not just during the warmer summer months – to help prevent the DNA damage caused by UV exposure that can ultimately lead to skin cancer. While sunscreen is often associated with hot weather, UV rays can still penetrate cloud cover on overcast and rainy days.

To help reduce the risk of sun damage, Werner UK is highlighting the following NHS guidance for outdoor workers:

• Spend some time in the shade when the sun is at its strongest (11am-3pm)
• Apply sunscreen in a thick, even layer
• Choose sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher
• Use a sunscreen with at least 4-star UVA protection
• Check sunscreen expiry dates before use
• Apply sunscreen 30 minutes before sun exposure
• Reapply sunscreen according to the manufacturer’s instructions
• Cover up with suitable clothing and UV-protective sunglasses

The NHS also advises people to regularly check their skin for any changes, using a mirror or asking someone to inspect difficult-to-see areas.

If there are any changes to the shape, colour or size of moles, freckles or patches of skin, or if any new growths or lumps appear, it is important to arrange an appointment with a GP.

Additional Precautions

Alongside sun safety, Werner is also encouraging trade professionals to stay hydrated, take regular breaks and wear suitable clothing while working outdoors during warmer weather conditions.

These precautions should be taken in addition to standard working at height best practice, including carrying out regular equipment inspections, completing appropriate training, using the correct equipment for the job and reporting damaged equipment immediately.

Justin White, Werner UK MD

Justin White, Managing Director of Werner UK, commented: “Trade professionals regularly work outdoors, meaning they are often exposed to the dangers of UV rays as part of their day-to-day work. It is therefore vital to raise awareness of the risks associated with long-term sun exposure and the steps professionals can take to protect themselves.

“Skin Cancer Awareness Month is an important reminder that sun protection should not only be considered during summer or heatwaves. UV exposure can occur all year round, even on cloudy days.

“By taking simple precautions and following NHS guidance — such as applying sunscreen correctly, staying hydrated and taking breaks where possible — trade professionals can better protect themselves while continuing to work safely outdoors.”

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