Attitudes towards sun protective measures in the construction industry

Abstract

The Maltese Island average around 3,000 hours of sunshine every year making exposure to ultraviolet radiation an important factor to consider for any outdoor worker. Despite this, there is limited literature on the subject. This study aimed to determine the level of awareness of sun-protective behaviour of construction workers, if recommended control measures are adhered to and the factors which might affect the level of adherence to the recommended control measures. This was achieved by employing a cross-sectional study using quantitative techniques. A questionnaire was constructed based on the Sun Exposure Protection Index (SEPI) and information obtained from the literature review related to recommended control measures. A total of 103 questionnaires were collected from 11 different construction sites, out of which 98 were analysed. The general findings show that most of the construction workers who participated in this study are aware of the requirements of sunprotective behaviour in their personal life. However, most of the construction workers sampled, do not follow the recommended control measures to protect themselves at construction sites. The study was not able to determine factors which affect the level of adherence to suggested control measures, however, it was noted that the provision of certain equipment affects the level of use of the same equipment. The study provides enough information to show the current level of sunprotective behaviour within the sampled construction workers and provides insights into the level of sun-protective behaviours of construction workers in Malta. The study suggests that authorities should collect more data on injuries and diseases arising from sun exposure and that further studies with a larger sample size are to be carried out to be able to determine the level of awareness of sun-protective behaviour of all construction workers in Malta and determine whether additional controls are required to reduce this risk.