Only one-in-five farm contractors will use sunscreen during the current heatwave, a recent survey conducted by the Association of Farm and Forestry Contractors in Ireland (FCI) has found.
With temperatures surpassing 30°C this week and UV ratings entering the ‘very high’ category, the FCI is urging farm contractors to educate themselves on the dangers of unprotected exposure to the sun, even when inside the tractor cab.
FCI managing director Ann Gleeson Hanrahan said: “Unfortunately, there is a dangerous misconception in the agriculture industry, and particularly within farm contracting, that if you are under the cover of a tractor cab you do not need to worry about the sun – but this is simply not the case.”
“The recommendations from Teagasc clearly state that some of the most harmful UV rays still pass through glass. We are urging our members and the wider agricultural community in Ireland to have a re-think about their approach to sun-safety in the cab, particularly during periods of high UV radiation like this week,” she added.
Broad-spectrum SPF 50
The FCI is encouraging contractors to apply broad-spectrum SPF 50 sunscreen and reapply regularly; use sunglasses that provide UV protection and always have water available in the cab so workers can stay hydrated throughout the working day.
“With contractors working long hours during silage, harvesting and other peak seasonal activities, which all take place in fine weather, protecting your skin should be viewed as an essential health and safety measure – just like wearing high-visibility clothing or using the correct safety equipment,” Hanrahan added.
The FCI is urging all contractors to review the sun safety practices of both themselves and their staff during the current period of high temperatures and increased levels of UV radiation.
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