Variability in the annual erythemal ultraviolet exposure of school children in south east Queensland

Schoolchildren in south east Queensland, Australia are potentially exposed to high levels of solar ultraviolet (UV) radiation. However, little data has been collected on the amount of the annual UV exposure schoolchildren may receive whilst at school and the overall protectiveness of items such as hats. In this present study, the highest recorded lunchtime meal break UV exposure on a horizontal plane was 6 MED (minimal erythemal dose) in a 45 minute meal break in summer during February. For the same time period the highest UV exposure on the nose was 1.5 MED. The annual UV exposure of schoolchildren to the nose could be reduced by up to 50% if a hat were to be worn at all times whilst outdoors. This study also presents information on the UV exposure during various meal breaks and school sporting activities.