The Health and Safety Authority (HSA) has begun a new inspection and awareness campaign aimed at skin cancer risks among outdoor workers during the summer months.

The authority's Sun Exposure Campaign is aimed at protecting outdoor workers from the harmful effects of ultraviolet radiation from the sun.

Those who work in agriculture are cited as among the highest risk workers.

The campaign will run throughout the summer months, May to September, combining national awareness raising activities with a targeted inspection programme.

The HSA is urging employers to ensure practical protective measures are in place for workers who are exposed to UV from sunlight as part of their job, even on cloudy days or when overcast.

Outdoor workers, including those in construction, agriculture, quarries, utilities, transport and similar sectors, can be exposed to two to three times more UV radiation than indoor workers, particularly from now until the autumn when UV levels are highest, the HSA said.

During the inspection campaign, HSA inspectors will assess whether employers have considered UV exposure as part of their risk assessment; if they have taken steps to reduce exposure during peak UV times; and if they provide appropriate information, training and protective measures for workers.

The campaign aims to improve compliance, increase awareness and prevent long-term harm among outdoor workers.

Skin cancer is the most common cancer in Ireland, with over 11,000 new cases diagnosed each year, and incident rates continue to rise, according to the National Cancer Registry of Ireland.

Prolonged or unprotected exposure to UV radiation is seen as the main risk factor.

UV radiation is measured using the UV Index, which indicates the risk of skin and eye damage. When the UV Index is 3 or more, protective measures should be taken, including wearing covering clothing, using sunscreen on uncovered skin, and seeking shade.

The HSA said that, during summer months in Ireland, UV levels frequently exceed this threshold, particularly between 11:00a.m and 3:00p.m, especially from April to September.

Commenting on the HSA awareness campaign, Dr. Adrienne Duff, assistant chief executive at the Occupational Health Division of the HSA, said: "Ultraviolet exposure represents a significant occupational health risk for many outdoor workers in Ireland and is one that employers are required to manage.

"Through our Sun Exposure Campaign, the HSA is reminding employers that they have a duty to assess UV exposure risks and put practical measures in place.

"Our inspectors will be looking for evidence that these risks are being managed effectively, including, planning the work, monitoring the UV index and taking appropriate protective measures when it reaches 3 or above.

"By taking simple, practical steps, employers can play a vital role in protecting workers' health now and in the future," Dr. Duff commented.