(in German)

The annual solar UV exposure of outdoor workers compared to indoor workers is up to three times higher. With respect to the proven, increasing skin cancer risk by increasing cumulative lifetime UV dose the development of effective UV protection measures at workplaces of outdoor workers becoming high priority. Therefore, the purpose of this research project was the investigation of the efficacy of such protection measures as well as their practicability and acceptance. In order to do this meteorological data and actinic solar UV immission data from Germany were analysed as a first step. It was verified that the results on protective components are relevant for Germany as well as Middle Europe. Furthermore, the analysed solar UV exposure data were used to establish several parameters necessary to estimate the individual UV exposure on outdoor workplaces.

Afterwards, the current situation of protection against solar UV exposure at outdoor workplaces was determined by the analysis of company and outdoor workers surveys on the subject matter. Also technical measures for shading of outdoor workplaces were assessed metrologically.

Organizational and technical protection measures regarding the reduction of solar exposure often have to be complemented by individual protection measures. Therefore, a concept for protection against UV-radiation containing minimum UV protection factors for textiles (UPF) and sun protection factors for sunscreens (SPF) was developed. The efficacy and acceptance of textiles and headgear as well as sunglasses were determined metrologically and by interviews. Distinct differences depending on the material and type of clothing were found.

A mobile UV-index measurement system (MUVI) to determine and display the current UV-index on a large-area display was developed. The connection of the UV-index and related protection measures simplifies the correct choice of appropriate protective components.

As an essential result the final chapter presents guidelines which outline rules of conduct at workplaces with stronger solar radiation.

Please download the complete report "Protection components for solar UV exposure" (in German only).