Only 1 in 5 farm contractors use sunscreen during heatwave - survey
Only one in five farm contractors will use sunscreen during the current heatwave.
This is according to a survey conducted by the Association of Farm and Forestry Contractors in Ireland (FCI).
With temperatures surpassing 30 degrees this week and UV ratings entering the ‘Very High’ category today (Wednesday, June 24), FCI are 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: “The nature of farm contracting means long hours spent operating machinery with exposed glass on all sides, and usually during fine weather.
“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.”
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 that you and your staff can stay hydrated throughout the working day.
Hanrahan added: “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."
FCI has advised contractors to review the sun safety practices for both themselves and their staff during the current period of high temperatures and increased levels of UV radiation.
Hanrahan said: “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."
