There’s a reason Florida’s nickname is the Sunshine State. It’s closer to the equator than most US states, and there are many sunny days without many clouds in the sky. All of this adds up to a high UV Index on most days. The UV Index is the intensity of UV radiation from the sun, and UV radiation is what causes sunburns and sun poisoning, and it’s especially hazardous for those who work outdoors, like construction workers. The Tucker Paving team has almost 30 years of experience in paving and construction in The Sunshine State, and we wanted to share our tips for protecting your skin from the scorching Florida sun while on the jobsite.
Tips to Minimize UV Rays
Utilize as many of the following tips together as possible to avoid the dangers of UV rays. Keep in mind that while sunburns or sun poisoning from one day of too much sun are unpleasant, constant exposure to UV rays can also lead to skin cancer.
- Try to work before and after peak UV hours. UV ray intensity peaks between 10 am and 4 pm. Try to limit your time outdoors during peak UV times.
- Cover your skin with UV-blocking clothing. When it comes to blocking UV rays, not all clothing is created equally. Dark, tight-woven fabric is best for blocking UV rays. Also know that a cloth’s UV protection drops when it is wet. There are also special fabrics that have been treated to block UV rays; ask if company-branded shirts can be made of this material.
- Cover your head. Whether you choose a hard hat or some other hat—or an accessory that works with your required hard hat—having something on your head that blocks out the sun is vastly important for protecting your face and neck from UV rays.
- Wear UV-protection sunglasses. UV rays can damage your eyes as well, with long-term exposure leading to cataract formation and worsening eyesight later in life. Ask if eye protection comes in a UV-rated version.
- Don’t forget gloves. UV-rated gloves protect an often-forgotten patch of skin—your hands!
- Use sunscreen. Choose a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30; this blocks out 93% of the sun’s UV rays. Also, remember that UV rays can penetrate through clouds; up to 80% of UV rays can pass through clouds. Apply sunscreen 20 minutes before you need to be in the sun, and reapply it after sweating, getting wet, or at least every two hours.
- Seek shade. Whenever prep work, discussions, breaks, or other activities can occur indoors or under shade, they should!
Remember to protect your skin from UV rays for the short-term benefits—no sunburns or sun poisoning—and the long-term benefits—reducing your risk of skin cancer!
Safety is always our biggest concern at Tucker Paving. We have nearly 30 years of experience in the asphalt and concrete paving industry. We complete projects for residential, commercial, and municipal clients. Contact us by calling (863) 299-2262, or fill out our contact form online, and let us help you with your next project.
