Changes in outdoor workers' sun-related attitudes, beliefs, and behaviors a pre-post workplace intervention

Sheree Rye, Monika Janda*, Melissa Stoneham, Phil Crane, Marguerite Sendall, Philippa Youl, Thomas Tenkate, Louise Baldwin, Heather Perina, Linda Finch, Michael Kimlin

*Corresponding author for this work

Research output: Contribution to journalArticleResearchpeer-review

27 Citations (Scopus)

Abstract

Objective: 

To evaluate changes in outdoor workers' sun-related attitudes, beliefs, and behaviors in response to a health promotion intervention using a participatory action research process. 

Methods: 

Fourteen workplaces across four outdoor industry types worked collaboratively with the project team to develop tailored sun protection action plans. Workers were assessed before and after the 18-month intervention. 

Results:

Outdoor workers reported increases in workplace support for sun protection (P < 0.01) and personal use of sun protection (P < 0.01). More workers reported seeking natural shade (+20%) and wearing more personal protective equipment, including broad-brimmed hats (+25%), long-sleeved collared shirts (+19%), and long trousers (+16%). The proportion of workers reporting sunburn over the past 12 months was lower at postintervention (-14%) (P = 0.03); however, the intensity of reported sunburn increased. 

Conclusions: 

This intervention was successful in increasing workers' sun protective attitudes, beliefs, and behaviors.

Original languageEnglish
Pages (from-to)e62-e72
Number of pages11
JournalJournal of Occupational and Environmental Medicine
Volume56
Issue number9
DOIs
Publication statusPublished - 1 Sept 2014
Externally publishedYes

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