The UV Index is a measure of the intensity of solar UV, and its effect on human skin. The UV Index uses a scale from 0 (low intensity) to 11+ (extreme intensity). The higher the index, the more sun protection is required.
It is important for a workplace with outdoor workers to be familiar with the UV Index and take the necessary steps to protect workers from the sun.
Tips for Workplaces and Workers
Monitoring the UV Index daily is part of how workplaces can assess worker risk for solar UV each day. The World Health Organization recommends that anytime the UV Index is 3 (moderate) or more, protection is needed. When the UV Index is 8 (very high) or above, additional protection is needed. In general, in Canada, the UV Index is 3 or higher from 11:00am to 3:00pm between April to September.
Monitoring the UV Index daily is part of a comprehensive sun safety program. Our UV Index poster helps workplaces to monitoring the UV Index daily.
Use the following guide to plan for sun protection based on the UV Index for the day.
UV Index 1-2:
Minimal sun protection required
UV Index 3-7: Protection Required
Between 11am - 3pm work tasks should be done in shade
Take breaks in the shade
Wear protective clothing appropriate to the work tasks
- Long sleeved shirts and pants,
- UV protective eyewear
- Wide brimmed hat or hard hat with additional brim and neck flap,
- Sunscreen and lip balm (minimum SPF 30)
UV Index 8-11: Extra Protection Required
Between 11am – 3pm, work tasks should be rescheduled to avoid being outdoors.
- If rescheduling is not possible, work tasks should be done in shade
Take breaks in the shade
Wear protective clothing appropriate to the work tasks
- Long sleeved shirts and pants,
- UV protective eyewear
- Wide brimmed hat or hard hat with additional brim and neck flap,
- Sunscreen and lip balm (minimum SPF 30)