Sun Safety Outdoor Professionals

Sun Safety An Overview for Outdoor Professionals

Safety

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Rescue

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Guiding

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Instruction

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The Sun, UV and You Natural sunlight contains, among other things, ultraviolet (UV) photons. These photons are shorter in wavelength and higher in energy than visible light. Because they fall outside the visible spectrum, the human eye cannot perceive them. When it comes to sun exposure, however, what you can’t see will hurt you. When these high-energy photons strike your skin, they generate free radicals and can also directly damage your DNA. Over the short term, this UV-induced damage can produce a painful burn; over the long term it causes premature aging of the skin, as well as millions of new cases of skin cancer each year. UV radiation of greatest concern are UVA and UVB. The shorter wavelength UVB rays do not penetrate deeply into skin; but they can cause significant damage to DNA and are the primary cause of sunburn. DNA damage can lead to skin cancer. The longer wavelength of UVA rays penetrate the deeper layers of skin, where they produce free radicals and also damage DNA structures. 10 to 100 times more UVA (compared to UVB) reaches the earth. In high doses, UVA has caused skin cancer in animal tests. Light rays form waves and carry energy. Therefore they can be compared to waves of water. On a calm day the ocean has waves that are far apart. Their wavelength (from one peak to the other) is long and they do not carry much energy. The same with light waves – some light has long waves and does not carry much energy. Other light has short waves, very close together, that carry lots of energy which may be harmful. Just like the ocean waves after a hurricane. The light we are able to see has a wavelength of 400 to 760 nm (109 meters). Ultraviolet light, also called UV radiation, is classified into three types by its wavelength: UVA ranges from 400 to 320 nm, UVB from 320 to 290 nm, and UVC from 290 to 200 nm. Always keep in mind the shorter the wavelength, the more harmful the energy it carries. Fortunately our earth is surrounded by a defensive shield of gases which absorbs nearly all of the UVC radiation and some of the UVA and UVB radiation. The rest of the UVA and UVB light, which passes through no matter if it is cloudy or sunny, can have different impacts on our skin. Through UV exposure our DNA (in the cells of our skin) is damaged. Either those damaged cells die or they get repaired by the cell’s own repair mechanism. But if the damage is too severe and the cells cannot regenerate, those damaged cells can turn into skin cancer. 2

UV intensity depends on many factors Ozone The ozone layer absorbs most of the sun's harmful UV rays, but its thickness varies depending on the time of year and changing weather patterns. The ozone layer has thinned in certain areas due to emissions of ozone-depleting chemicals widely used in industry. Time of Day The sun is at its highest in the sky around the noon hour. At this time, the sun's rays have the least distance to travel through the atmosphere and UVB levels are at their highest. In the early morning and late afternoon the sun's rays pass obliquely through the atmosphere and the intensity of UVB is greatly reduced. UVA levels are not sensitive to ozone and vary throughout the day much like visible sunlight does. Time of Year The sun's angle varies with the seasons, causing the intensity of UV rays to vary. UV intensity tends to be highest during the summer months. Latitude The sun's rays are strongest at the equator where the sun is most directly overhead and UV rays must travel the least distance through the atmosphere... At higher latitudes the sun is lower in the sky, so UV rays must travel a greater distance through ozonerich portions of the atmosphere and in turn, expose those latitudes to less UV radiation. Elevation UV intensity increases with altitude because higher elevations have less atmosphere to scatter and absorb the damaging rays. As a result, there is more UV radiation at higher elevations than at lower elevations. In general UV intensity increases at a rate of 5% to 7% for every 1000 feet of elevation gain. Example: at 10,000 feet elevation, UV intensity is +50% stronger than at the same latitude at sea level (not including reflection) Reflective surfaces Snow and water can reflect 70-85% of harmful UV. The powerful combination of direct plus snow or water reflected UV can more that double the UV intensity and rapidly exhaust the UV absorption of organic (chemical) UV filters. Inorganic (mineral) filters are not affected by UV intensity and are strongly advised in these conditions. Clouds Made up of millions of water droplets, clouds can transmit, reflect and scatter UV radiation. The amount of each is dependant upon the thickness of the cloud and its morphology. The larger and thicker the cloud is the lesser amount of UV radiation that is transmitted. UV radiation can and does reflect off the sides of towering cumulus clouds. Such conditions result in actual enhancements of surface UV radiation. Sunburns frequently occur on cloudy days. Dust/Haze/Pollution All these atmospheric particulates scatter UV radiation and reduce the amounts of UV radiation reaching the earth’s surface. 3

Your Skin Type Your risk of developing skin cancer highly depends on your skin type (among other factors). In 1975, Thomas B. Fitzpatrick, MD, PhD, of Harvard Medical School, created a standard for classifying individuals according to their skin color and burning and tanning responses to sun light exposure. A low number means a higher risk. However, there are people with skin type 3 who develop skin cancer and even people with naturally dark skin can also develop skin cancer. Know your skin type and protect yourself accordingly.

Skin Type

Sunburn Tendency

Tanning Tendency

Skin, Hair, and Eye Color

I

I always get sunburn.

I never get a tan.

Typically: Red-blond hair. Blue-green eyes, very pale light skin

II

I usually get sunburn.

I sometimes get a tan.

Typically: Light to medium hair, light to medium eyes, and light to medium skin.

III

I seldom get sunburn.

Burns minimally; always tans well to moderately brown

Typically: Medium hair, medium to dark eyes, medium to olive skin.

IV

I never get sunburn.

Seldom burns, dark brown

V-VI

I never get sunburn.

Dark brown or black Never burns; deeply pigmented

4

Typically: Dark hair, dark eyes, dark to very dark skin. Typically: Dark hair, dark eyes, dark to very dark skin.

Your Eyes and UV Radiation

Your eyes are also sensitive to overexposure of UV radiation. UV-B is partly absorbed by the cornea. UV-A passes through the cornea and with time and overexposure may contribute to eye damage. In the short-term, excessive exposure to UV radiation from daily activities, including reflections off of snow, pavement, and other surfaces, can burn the front surface of the eye, similar to sunburn on the skin. The cumulative effects of spending long hours in the sun without adequate eye protection can increase the likelihood of developing the following eye disorders. Cataracts: A clouding of the eye’s lens that can blur vision. Snow Blindness (Photokeratitis): A day at the beach without sunglasses, reflections off of snow, water, or concrete; or exposure to artificial light sources such as tanning beds, can cause a temporary but painful burn to the cornea of the eye. Pterygium: An abnormal, but usually non-cancerous, growth in the corner of the eye. It can grow over the cornea, partially blocking vision, and may require surgery to be removed. Skin Cancer Around the Eyelids: Basal cell carcinoma is the most common type of skin cancer to affect the eyelids. In most cases, lesions occur on the lower lid, but they can occur anywhere on the eyelids, in the corners of the eye, under the eyebrows, and on adjacent areas of the face. Protect your eyes from UV exposure by wearing sunglasses that properly block UV-A and UV-B rays. Sunglasses should block 99-100 percent of UV-A and UV-B from reaching your eyes, so look for manufacturer labels that indicate UV protective lenses. Wrap-around sunglasses are preferable because they keep UV rays from reaching the eyes. Additionally, a wide-brimmed hat offers some degree of eye protection, blocking UV rays from entering the eyes from the sides or above the sunglasses.

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Protecting Yourself from Over-Exposure to Solar UV General Sun Safety Seek shade to minimize exposure. Minimize exposure to the sun during the hours of 10 AM to 4 PM when exposure can be most intense and damaging, Typically, exposure at 8 a.m. or after 4 p.m. is only one third that at midday. Try getting outdoor activities accomplished during minimum exposure hours. Remember that incidental time in the sun can add up to long-term sun damage. Even on overcast days, 30 to 60 percent of the sun's rays can penetrate to the Earth's surface. Wear protective covering such as broad-brimmed hats, long pants, and long-sleeved shirts to reduce sun exposure. Tightly woven fabrics provide higher level of protection. Water-sports professionals should wear long sleeved rashguards with a UFP rating of 30 or above. Use broad spectrum sunscreens to filter both UVB and UVA radiation, preferably formulated with a combination of organic (chemical) and inorganic (e.g. Zinc oxide) active ingredients. Choose a Sunscreen with a Sun Protection Factor (SPF) of at least 30. Apply sunscreen liberally to all exposed skin, about 20 minutes before exposure, especially to easily overlooked areas like the rims of the ears, the back of the neck, and the tops of the feet. For an average adult, the recommended dose is 1.5 ounces per application. Reapply every 2 hours, after being in the water, sweating or toweling off. Avoid mixed application of different brands or types of sunscreens. Differing formulas can create chemical reactions on your skin that cause destruction of the UV protection, significant reduction in water resistance and skin irritation. Use broad spectrum lip balm with a minimum SPF of 15, preferably SPF 30. Apply frequently. Lip tissue burns easier than normal skin.

Snow and water can reflect up to 90% UV radiation. Those who workaround water or on snow should take special care. Wear sunglasses or goggles, and frequently apply a mineral based sunscreen (e.g. Zinc Oxide) with a minimum SPF value of 30. Remember to protect areas that could be exposed to reflected UV rays like nostrils, under the chin, ears and neck.

The Effect of Elevation and Snow Refelction on UV Intensity 450% 400% UV Intensity - Percentage Increase

Wear sunglasses that provide 100% UV ray protection. Wrap around style frames provide additional protection from UV exposure.

350% 300% 250% 200% 150% 100% 50% 0% 0

5,000

10,000

15,000

20,000

Elevation (in thousands of feet)

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25,000

30,000

Get to Know the UV Index The UV Index was created to improve public awareness of UV exposure expected on a given day. The UV index is posted on weather web sites and printed in most daily news papers. The UV Index ranges from 0 to 16+. The highest values are found on mountain tops at the equator. The UV Index forecast is the maximum value expected for a given day usually around solar noon. Generally, the further south the higher the UV Index. However, the UV Index is also dependent on altitude, reflection, and clouds.

Exposure Category

UV Index Sun Protection Guidelines Number

LOW

MODERATE

HIGH

VERY HIGH

EXTREME

<2

Wear sunglasses on bright days. Reflection off snow can nearly double UV strength. If you burn easily, cover up and use sunscreen.

3-5

Take precautions, such as covering up and using sunscreen, if you will be outside. Stay in shade near midday when the sun is strongest.

6-7

Protection against sunburn is needed. Reduce time in the sun between 11 a.m. and 4 p.m. Cover up, wear a hat and sunglasses, and use sunscreen.

8-10

Take extra precautions. Unprotected skin will be damaged and can burn quickly. Try to avoid the sun between 11 a.m. and 4 p.m. Otherwise, seek shade, cover up, wear a hat and sunglasses, and use sunscreen.

11+

Take all precautions. Unprotected skin can burn in minutes. Beachgoers should know that white sand and other bright surfaces reflect UV and will increase UV exposure. Avoid the sun between 11 a.m. and 4 p.m. Seek shade, cover up, wear a hat and sunglasses, and use sunscreen.

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Sunscreen Basics

Skin without sun protection The ultraviolet radiation (UVA & UVB) penetrates into the upper skin and into deeper skin layers.

Sunscreen with inorganic* UV filters scatters, reflects and absorbs UV radiation. * Zinc Oxide, Titanium Oxide

Sunscreen with organic* UV filters absorbs UV radiation by converting it to safe thermal energy (heat). *Chemical Filters

How Sunscreen Works All Sunscreens are filters, not “blocks”. All sunscreen products will let some UV through at varying rates indicated by the SPF number. An SPF 30 product will permit 1/30th of the sun burning energy through it in the same time as it would take to suffer minimal sunburn without any protection at all. Simply stated, if your skins burns in 10 minutes, then a properly applied SPF 30 sunscreen will allow the same UV energy to pass through in 300 minutes (30 x you burn time). After 300 minutes you would have absorbed the same amount of UV energy as you would in 10 minutes without sunscreen. A sunscreen product acts like a barrier to UV light, stopping the UV photons before they can reach the skin and inflict damage. To be effective, a sunscreen must stay between the sun and your skin. Sunscreens contain organic sunscreen molecules* that absorb UV and/or inorganic mineral particles that absorb, scatter and reflect UV (e.g. Zinc Oxide – Titanium Oxide). The ideal sunscreen works by leaving a uniform film of evenly dispersed UV filters on the surface of the skin. A Sunscreen that absorbs into the skin and becomes transdermal (passes into the blood stream) has reduced effectiveness as the active UV filters may be processed by the body through the skin and can no longer protect the skin . To deliver a high level of protection, a sunscreen product must have sufficient quantities of the protective active ingredients and it must optimally adhere in a film over the skin's irregular surfaces. * sometimes called chemical sunscreens

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Sunscreen Application Sunscreens should be used to reduce sun exposure, and not prolong it. Together, with clothing, a hat, and shade, sunscreens provide a complementary means for protecting your skin from the short and long term consequences of over exposure to sunlight. These include, sunburn, premature ageing, and skin cancer. A sunscreen should be applied BEFORE exposure (apx 20 minutes). This will allow the product to properly settle into the irregular surfaces of the skin and bind to the skin surface and afford optimum protection. Spray on sunscreens are the least effective way to apply protection as these products do not have good control over quantity and coverage of the product. Results of a 2002 FDA sponsored study showed that 54% of consumers apply only 20 percent to 60 percent of recommended amount of sunscreen, resulting in significantly reduced protection. Application of ½ the required amount of sunscreen will result in less than half the protection. On average, approximately 1.5 ounces will cover the legs, torso and head. Lotions spread differently, more product may be required. To maintain the layer of sunscreen on the skin it should be reapplied whenever it may have been rubbed off. Sweat will remove sunscreen more effectively than water. If the sunscreen is left untouched on the skin and you have to be exposed to direct sun for more than two (2) hours, then it is a good idea to reapply. Extended water immersion, sweating or towel drying can remove some types of sunscreens even if the products are promoted as “Waterproof”. Reapply after the above conditions. Most sunscreens have a shelf life of 2 to 3 years, Products lose their potency even faster if bottles are left out in the sun or stashed in a hot car, where light and heat can degrade them. Avoid mixing sunscreen formulas as chemistries are not often the same. Allergies to Sunscreen Products. Drug interactions can make skin more sensitive to UV. Antibiotics like tetracycline can make the skin more photosensitive and more vulnerable to UV damage. So, too, can thiazide diuretics, drugs included in some blood pressure medicines and others. Always consult your doctor when taking any medications for potential increased UV sensitivity or drug interaction. A small number of active ingredients are known to produce allergic reactions in people with sensitive skin. Those with a history of allergic reactions from lotions or sunscreens should avoid products with the below ingredients. • • •

PABA – Para Aminobenzoic Acid Padimate O - an ester of PABA Oxybenzone – ( also labeled as Benzophenone-3) is the most frequently used benzophenone in the United States and is currently one of the most common causes of photocontact allergy.

A list of active ingredients can be found in the Drug Facts label on the bottle of all FDA compliant sunscreen products. 9

Understanding Skin Cancer – A Real Concern for Outdoor Professionals Types of Skin Cancer Skin cancers are often divided into 2 groups – melanomas and non-melanomas. It is important for doctors to tell these apart, because they are treated differently. It is also important for you to know what melanomas and non-melanomas look like. That way, you can find them at the earliest possible stage, when skin cancers are most easily cured. Non-melanomas Non-melanomas include basal cell cancers and squamous cell cancers. They are the most common cancers of the skin. They are called non-melanomas because they develop from skin cells other than melanocytes (the cells that make the brown pigment that gives skin its color). Both basal cell and squamous cell cancers are found mainly on sun-exposed parts of the body such as the head and neck, and their occurrence is related to lifetime sun exposure. Non-melanomas rarely spread elsewhere in the body and are less likely than melanomas to be fatal. Nonetheless, they are important to recognize. If left untreated, they can grow quite large and can cause scarring, disfigurement, or even loss of function in some parts of the body. The best ways to lower the risk of nonmelanoma skin cancers are to avoid intense sunlight for long periods of time and to practice sun safety. Melanomas A melanoma is a cancer that begins in the melanocytes. Melanomas can occur anywhere on the skin, but are more likely to develop in certain locations. The trunk is the most common site in men. In women, the legs are most commonly affected. Some research suggests that melanomas develop more often in these spots because sun exposure in these areas comes and goes and sunburn is more likely. Rarely, melanomas can also develop in other areas, such as the eyes. Melanoma is much less common than basal cell and squamous cell skin cancers, but it can be far more serious. Like basal cell and squamous cell cancers, melanoma is almost always curable in its early stages. But it is much more likely than basal or squamous cell cancer to spread to other parts of the body, where it can be very hard to treat. How Important is Early Detection? It is very important to remove a melanoma as early as possible. This is because a superficial melanoma ("in situ" or "thin") has a very good outcome if treated without delay (95%+ cure rates). Early detection is vital in controlling this disease. The most common site for melanoma in men is on the back and for women, on the legs. However, as melanoma can occur anywhere on the skin, you should check ALL of your body.

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How to Spot Skin Cancer Melanoma is the most dangerous form of skin cancer. In its advanced state, it can cause serious illness and even death. Fortunately, melanoma rarely strikes without warning. There are almost always signs that danger is lurking. Watch for them, because when melanoma is found early, it is almost always curable. Early Detection The first signs of malignant melanoma are a change in color and/or enlargement of a mole, freckle or birthmark. However, some melanomas may arise from normal looking skin. A mole, freckle or birthmark can change in color by becoming darker (dark brown/purple/black), developing new colors or even losing color and becoming pink or whitish. A mole, freckle or birthmark can also change by increasing in size by spreading across the skin or becoming raised and lumpy.

Normal Mole

Early Melanoma

These changes are normally noticed over a period of several weeks or months rather than days. When a mole increases in size it can also become quite raised or elevated (E) and form a lump. This is nodular melanoma the most serious type of melanoma. Look for: Recent Appearance Increase in Size Change in Color Change in Shape Irregular Border Persistent Itch Recurrent Bleeding A monthly skin self-exam is important for people who have any of the known risk factors, but doing skin self-exams routinely is a good idea for everyone. We recommend you check your skin every 3 - 4 months. A simple way to remember is to conduct a full skin check at the start of each season i.e. Spring, Summer, Autumn and Winter. 11

Moles, brown spots and growths on the skin are usually harmless — usually, but not always. Anyone who has more than 100 moles is at greater risk for melanoma. The first signs can appear in one or more of these moles. That's why it's so important to get to know your skin very well. Have a physician check you over once a year. If you detect any of these warning signs (see photos below), see a physician promptly. It is particularly important for you to select a physician who specializes in skin cancer and is trained to recognize a melanoma at its earliest stage. You would first see a dermatologist, who might refer you to a dermatologic surgeon or oncologist (cancer specialist). Make an appointment without delay. Prompt action is your best protection. Common moles and melanomas do not look alike. Check the comparison photos: Benign

Malignant

Symmetrical

Asymmetrical (the two sides do not match)

Borders are even

Borders are uneven

One shade

Color.Two or more shades

Smaller than 1/4 inch

Diameter. Larger than 1/4 inch

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Guidelines for Skin Cancer Self Exam 1. It is often easiest to check your skin after a bath or shower. Stand in front of a full-length mirror in a well-lit room. 2. A hand-held mirror is required to check the back of your legs, arms and torso. If you use a hand held mirror in front of the fulllength mirror you can comfortably check your skin without straining your neck. 3. Begin with the face and scalp and work downward, checking the head, neck, shoulders, back, chest, and so on. Be sure to check the front, back, and sides of the arms and legs. Also, check the groin, the palms, the fingernails, the soles of the feet, the toenails, and the area between the toes. 4. Be sure to check the hard-to-see areas of the body, such as the scalp and neck. A friend or relative may be able to help inspect these areas. Use a comb or a blow dryer to help move hair so you can see the scalp and neck better. 5. Be aware of where your moles are and how they look. By checking your skin regularly, you will become familiar with what your moles look like. Look for any signs of change, particularly a new black mole or a change in outline, shape, size, color (especially a new black area), or feel of an existing mole. Also, note any new, unusual, or "ugly-looking" moles. 6. Check moles carefully during times of hormone changes, such as adolescence, pregnancy, and menopause. As hormone levels change, moles may change. 7. It may be helpful to record the dates of your skin exams and to write notes about the way your skin looks. Creating a body map with locations of moles can assist in noticing changes. The majority of melanomas are detected solely by their appearance. If you find anything unusual, see your doctor right away. Remember, the earlier a melanoma is found, the better the chance for a cure.

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Sources

Sol Sunguard Corporation 1319 Dexter Avenue North #115 Seattle WA 98109 Contact Sol Sunguard for additional copies in printed or PDF format. www.solsunguard.com [email protected] 206-283-0409 fax 425 977-9109 14