Protection of outdoor workers from solar ultraviolet radiation: some results on shade and clothes for beach lifeguards in Tuscany (Italy)

The UV radiation risk is still little known and underestimated by outdoor workers and employers, as highlighted for example by the Plan of the Tuscany Region (Italy) "Risk from Solar UV Radiation in Outdoor Workers" which investigated several working sectors. Among these the seaside sector, well represented in Tuscany and mainly characterized by "outdoor" activities during the annual peak of UV radiation. Several studies have pointed out as occupational solar exposure increased eyes and skin diseases among which the non-melanoma skin cancer, with an excess risk up to three-fold increase in outdoor workers. Only recently the seaside sector in Tuscany is beginning to be aware of the use of protective measures such as shady areas and clothing (in addition to sunscreens, sunglasses, etc.) in order to reduce the professional risk due to solar UV exposure. In this work the UV protection properties offered by some shading structures were analysed during a summer clear sky day by means of two erythemally weighted broadband radiometers. Concerning clothes, were described some recent experiences of LaMMA/CNR-IBE on the UV protection offered by natural fabrics, while the ultraviolet protection factors of some T-shirts, used in the coastal area by beach lifeguards, were assessed. The shading structures blocked the direct component of the sun radiation, while the diffuse one, albeit also significantly reduced, continued to be not always negligible (due to environment reflection) especially considering a stay for several hours for the whole summer, therefore suggesting as good practice the maintaining of further protective measures (T-shirt, sunglasses, sunscreen, etc.) also in the shade. Results are shown both as instantaneous and cumulated doses for different time intervals along the day. The protective role of fabrics was emphasized and in particular, the tested T-shirts showed a very good-excellent protection (only one good protection) according to the New Zealand standard. The results show that also in the seaside context the dissemination of good practices, including those tested, could be particularly effective as primary prevention for workers who are subjected to very high levels of radiation for very long periods empowering employers and at the same time instil in workers an adequate awareness of the risk.