Measured Solar Ultraviolet Radiation Exposures of Outdoor Workers in Queensland in the Building and Construction Industry¶

Abstract

The risk to outdoor workers of exposure to solar ultraviolet radiation (UVR) has been known for some time, particularly in the building and construction industry, where workers often use little in the way of protection against solar UVR. In recent years there have been attempts by authorities in Australia and in Queensland in particular, where UVR levels in spring and summer are very high to extreme, to instigate and to encourage the use of personal UVR protection by outdoor workers. To quantify UVR exposure of building and construction industry workers involved in typical outdoor work, a study was conducted using UVR-sensitive polysulphone film badges. The results indicated that the doses were significant, often well in excess of recommended exposure limits. The measured exposures varied between trades. Data on the use of personal UVR-protective equipment and the skin type of workers were also collected. Many of the workers had skin types that were sensitive to UVR and showed signs of sunburn. In summary, the study found that at-risk individuals were exposed to extreme levels of UVR, in most cases without adequate and appropriate sun protection.

Solar UV exposure in construction workers in Valencia, Spain

“…For building workers, the mean daily concurrent ER was 19.6 % on the back, with a range of 1.6 to 66.4, whereas we obtained a median ER of 14.5% (range 2.3-55.0) on the shoulder (comparable to the back area). Gies and Wright, 2003 examined UVR exposure in some groups of outdoor workers related to the construction industry in Australia in the spring. They found that a formworker received a median concurrent ER of 30% and a steel fixer of 33%, both on the chest, whereas we measured a median ER of 9% and 42%, respectively, on the chest.…”

“…Due to its geographical situation, for most of the year the Valencia Region (Spain) receives large doses of UVR. Outdoor workers receive regular and significant solar UVR in their course of their activities (Gies and Wright, 2003;Gies et al, 2009;Glanz et al, 2007;Hammond et al, 2009;Milon et al, 2007;Moehrle et al, 2003;Schmalwieser et al, 2010;Serrano et al, 2009;Siani et al, 2011;Siani et al, 2008;Thieden et al 2005) especially when solar radiation is intense.…”

Reflected solar radiation from horizontal, vertical and inclined surfaces: Ultraviolet and visible spectral and broadband behaviour due to solar zenith angle, orientation and surface type

“…UV exposure is specific to the formation of the above health effects and much research has been conducted to measure and model UV exposure. UV radiation is influenced by (and UV exposure modelling must take into account) many atmospheric factors; including solar zenith angle, altitude, latitude, ozone, clouds, aerosols, albedo (reflectivity) [3,4] and personal factors; including occupation and personal behaviour [5][6][7][8].…”

Influence of reflected UV irradiance on occupational exposure from combinations of reflective wall surfaces

“…10 It has previously been shown that outdoor workers can be exposed to excessive levels of UV exposure, and that UV exposure is dependent on the occupation. 8,11 Studies also show that most outdoor workers often exceed occupational recommended UV exposure levels. [11][12][13] Recommendations for occupational UV exposure levels are readily available.…”

“…8,11 Studies also show that most outdoor workers often exceed occupational recommended UV exposure levels. [11][12][13] Recommendations for occupational UV exposure levels are readily available. 14,15 UV exposure to outdoor workers can be managed; however factors that affect UV exposure need to be assessed in order to determine appropriate recommendations to outdoor workers.…”