WELLNESS WORKBENCH
MAY 2026
Melanoma & Skin Cancer: Protecting Yourself on the Job
May Focus: Skin Cancer & Melanoma Awareness Month
Working outdoors comes with the territory in construction—but so does long-term exposure to the sun. Skin cancer, including melanoma, is one of the most common cancers, and the risk goes up with repeated UV exposure over time. The reality is simple: if you’re on a jobsite day after day, you’re at higher risk. May is Skin Cancer & Melanoma Awareness Month, and it’s a good time to take sun protection seriously—not just when it’s hot, but all season long.
Sun Protection on the Jobsite
You don’t have to avoid the sun—but you do need to manage it.
- Cover up when possible: Long sleeves, pants, and neck protection reduce direct exposure.
- Wear a hat: A hard hat with a brim or sun shield helps protect your face, ears, and neck.
- Use sunglasses: Protect your eyes from UV damage and reduce strain.
- Take shade breaks: Even short breaks out of direct sunlight help limit exposure.
Proper Use of Sunscreen
Sunscreen only works if you use it the right way.
- Use SPF 30 or higher: Broad-spectrum protects against both UVA and UVB rays.
- Apply before work starts: Give it time to absorb into your skin.
- Reapply regularly: Every 2 hours—or more often if you’re sweating.
- Don’t miss spots: Ears, neck, face, and hands are the most commonly exposed and forgotten areas.
Watch for Early Warning Signs
Skin cancer is highly treatable when caught early—but easy to ignore if you’re not paying attention.
- Look for changes: New spots, growths, or sores that don’t heal.
- Check moles: Watch for changes in size, shape, or color.
- Remember the ABCDE rule:
- A – Asymmetry: One half doesn’t match the other
- B – Border: Edges are irregular or blurred
- C – Color: Uneven shades or multiple colors
- D – Diameter: Larger than a pencil eraser
- E – Evolving: Changing over time
- Get it checked: If something looks off, don’t wait—have a doctor take a look.
Reducing Long-Term UV Exposure
This isn’t about one day—it’s about years on the job.
- Start early in the season: Sun damage adds up, even in spring.
- Don’t rely on clouds: UV rays still get through on overcast days.
- Make it routine: Sunscreen and protective gear should be as standard as PPE.
- Stay consistent: Skipping protection “just this once” adds up over time.
Quick Builder’s Sun Safety Checklist
- Wear protective clothing and a hat
- Apply and reapply sunscreen daily
- Take breaks in the shade when possible
- Watch for changes in your skin
- Don’t ignore warning signs
Bottom Line: Skin cancer isn’t something that shows up overnight—it builds over years of exposure. The habits you follow now make the difference later. Protect your skin the same way you protect yourself from any other jobsite hazard—consistently and without cutting corners.
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