Updated January 31, 2012 

If you work outdoors, you have a higher risk for developing skin cancer because you are regularly exposed to the sun for long periods of time. Often this exposure happens during those times in the day when the sun’s ultraviolet (UV) radiation, which will harm the skin, is at its strongest — between 12 noon and 2 pm.

The good news is that skin cancer is largely preventable. Here are ways you can protect yourself:

• Try to limit the amount of time you work outdoors in the direct sun from 11 am to 3 pm
• Seek shade from buildings, tree canopies, etc., especially during lunch and coffee breaks
• Wear a wide-brimmed hat (more than 8 cm or 3 inches)
• Attach a back flap to a construction helmet to cover the back of the neck and a visor for the front of the face
• Wear loose, comfortable clothing that covers as much of the body as possible. Fabrics that do not let light through work best
• Apply an SPF 30 or higher broad spectrum (protects against UVA and UVB) sunscreen to all exposed areas of skin before you go outside. Reapply at midday or more often if you are perspiring heavily
• Apply a broad spectrum SPF 30 lip balm

For more information, contact the Canadian Dermatology Association.