Are You an Outdoor Worker?
Written by admin, May 21, 2015
May 21, 2015 – Public Health Promotes Sun Safety to Reduce Skin Cancer Risk for Those Who Work Outside
In response to higher-than-average local skin cancer rates, today Peterborough Public Health teamed up with Johnston’s Greenhouse to promote sun safety for outdoor workers. The event focused on how those who work outside can reduce their risk of skin cancer by spotlighting Johnston’s Greenhouse’s efforts to educate and protect their staff.
“The health and safety of our staff is our number one priority, so making our employees aware of the potentially dangerous effects of long-term exposure to the sun is vital,” explained Chris Heckel of Johnston’s Greenhouse. “With the help of Public Health we have created a sun safety program to educate our staff and make it easier for them to protect themselves. This program also benefits our community as our team is able to share their knowledge with our clients who also like to spend time in the sun.”
Medical Officer of Health Dr. Rosana Salvaterra was on hand to commend Johnston’s Greenhouse for their leadership in sun safety promotion. “Rates of skin cancer in Peterborough are higher than the provincial average, and the mortality rate for melanoma is rising. However 90% of skin cancer can be prevented, so programs like this are absolutely necessary to turn the tide.” She noted That those who work outside have greater exposure to the potentially harmful effects of ultraviolet radiation (UV) from the sun.
Between 1986 and 2007, a Public Health study found that Peterborough men aged 45 to 64 had incidence rates 36.2% higher than their provincial counterparts, whereas women aged 75 and older had rates 41.5% higher than the province.
Anita Record, Manager of the local chapter of the Canadian Cancer Society also attended today’s event and spoke about the dangers of UV rays, particularly those who enjoy outdoor recreational activities or work outside.
A large part of Johnston’s business is landscaping, property maintenance and deck installation. Johnston’s is considered a leader in the community for providing their workers with sun safety training, hats, water and sunscreen at the beginning of every shift. When sun exposure is unavoidable, these are the major precautions that should be taken.
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For further information, please contact:
Brittany Cadence
Communications Supervisor
705-743-1000, ext. 391