Ultraviolet (UV) rays are a part of sunlight that is an invisible form of radiation. UV rays can penetrate and change the structure of skin cells. Sunlight exposure is highest during the summer and between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. Workers are at risk even on cloudy days. Plus, many common prescription and over-the-counter drugs, such as tetracycline, diuretics and ibuprofen, can increase sensitivity to sunlight and the risk of getting sunburn.

Sunburn is something we're all familiar with. Years of overexposure to the sun can lead to premature wrinkling, aging of the skin, age spots, and an increased risk of skin cancer. In addition to the skin, sunburned eyes become red, dry and painful, and feel gritty. Chronic exposure of eyes to sunlight may cause pterygium (tissue growth that leads to blindness), cataracts, and perhaps macular degeneration, a leading cause of blindness.

Symptoms of Sunburn: 

• Red, warm and tender skin
• Swollen skin
• Blistering
• Headache
• Fever
• Nausea
• Fatigue

The pain is worse 6-48 hours after sun exposure.

Seek medical attention for: 

• Severe sunburns covering more than 15 percent of the body
• Dehydration
• High fever (>101°F)
• Extreme pain that persists for longer than 48 hours

To protect workers from exposure to UV radiation: 

• When possible, avoid scheduling outdoor work when sunlight exposure is the greatest
• Provide shaded or indoor break areas
• Provide training to workers about UV radiation including:
• Their risk of exposure
• How to prevent exposure
• The signs and symptoms of overexposure