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Do not overlook the risk of skin cancer if you work outdoors

Summer is here, and while most people in Pennsylvania likely cannot wait to get out and enjoy the sun, those whose occupations have them working all day outdoors might not realize the danger posed by the UV rays of the sun. The Occupational Safety and Health Administration started warning employers about the dangers of heat illnesses during spring, and urged them to provide fresh water and shady rest areas for outdoor workers. However, safety authorities make little mention of the risks of skin cancer.

If you work as a landscaper, construction worker, postal worker or any other occupation that exposes you to the sun, you may be at risk of developing skin cancer. Even truckers or other employees whose jobs require them to spend many hours driving might not realize that their exposure to the sun also puts them at risk. While auto manufacturers typically install laminated windscreens to block hazardous rays, the side windows usually provide little protection against UV radiation.

Sun safety measures

Even if your employer does not implement a sun protection program, you can take steps to protect yourself from sun-related injuries as well as the costs and suffering that come along with skin cancer. The following precautions might keep you safe:

Prevention is better than cure

Even though skin cancer is preventable, estimations by the American Academy of Dermatology indicate that over 8,500 cases of skin cancer are diagnosed nationwide each day. If you are unfortunate enough to contract skin cancer as a result of your occupation, you should be entitled to financial assistance, but you might have trouble proving that your workplace conditions caused it.

Fortunately, experienced legal counsel can help you with the navigation of the Pennsylvania workers’ compensation claims process, and can be your advocate during the appeals process if the insurer rejects your claim.