July is UV Safety Month

From: Steve Ham, Lofton Safety Services

Jul 14, 2020


July is UV Safety Month, and as the summer heats up, understanding the sun’s ultraviolet radiation becomes even more important.  Here are some things to keep in mind while you are outside enjoying the warmer weather.  

People need the sun.  Just 15 minutes of sunlight to the arms, hands and face two to three times a week is enough to boost Vitamin D production in the body, an important nutrient for our bones, blood cells and immune system.  It also aids in the absorption of certain minerals like calcium and phosphorus.   

But while moderate exposure to the sun is beneficial, overexposure to the sun’s harmful UV rays can lead to a variety of health risks.  Longer than 15 minutes spent unprotected in the sun can allow too much of its radiation to penetrate the skin and damage cell DNA.  This damage can present as a mild sunburn, or something as dangerous as skin cancer.  Often overlooked, the eyes are also susceptible to these detrimental rays.  Damage to the cornea, retina and lens are common when eyes are left unprotected.  

If you are planning to be outside for longer than 15 minutes, it is recommended you apply sunscreen.  Sunscreens are assigned a sun protection factor (SPF) number that rates their effectiveness in blocking UV rays. Higher numbers indicate more protection. You should use a broad spectrum sunscreen with SPF 15 or higher at least 15 minutes before swimming. You should also re-apply sunscreen after swimming, sweating, or toweling off.  

For best protection, use shade whenever possible.  Wearing a protective hat and shirt can also help, and be sure to wear sunglasses to protect your eyes. Sunglasses that block both UVA and UVB rays offer the best protection. It’s an easy way to do something valuable for your health to prevent skin cancer.

 

About Lofton: Founded in 1979, Lofton Services offers clients the best of all worlds. We provide the responsive, personal service and flexibility of a small local firm while having the technology, resources, and infrastructure to deliver the benefits of the biggest players in our industry. Lofton Staffing can deliver the right people, with the right skills, right when you need them. Contact us today

 


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