OUTDOOR workers and their employers are being advised to take extreme care this summer to avoid the danger of skin cancer.
WorkSafe – the WA State Government agency responsible for Occupational Safety and Health – says that, by law, employers had a duty of care to provide personal protective clothing and equipment so employees are not exposed to hazards.
With skin cancers accounting for up to 80 per cent of all cancers in Australia, and Australians having the highest rate of skin cancer in the world, WorkSafe acting executive director Nina Lyhne said employers should consult with safety and health representatives and employees about potential sun hazards.
Mr Lyhne urged employers to identify any exposure hazards, and supply personal protective equipment.
Employees also had a duty of care to themselves and others in the workplace, and must comply with instructions and use protective clothing and equipment provided, he said.