5 Tips Truck Drivers Can Follow to Prevent Sun Damage
5 Tips Truck Drivers Can Follow to Prevent Sun Damage
As a truck driver, you may not realize the amount of time you are spending in the sun while being inside your truck. Truck drivers are at a high risk of developing skin cancer due to the high level of ultraviolet (UV) radiation they are exposed to daily. During the colder months, trucker drivers still face a high level of harmful rays. A study conducted in 2012 by the New England Journal of Medicine showed the effects of sun damage on a truck driver’s face who never protected his skin against the sun for 28 years. The left side of his face had gradually thickened and wrinkled over time, while the right side was significantly less damaged. As a truck driver, it’s important to recognize just how harmful sun damage can be and the many ways you can stay protected while driving.
Use Sunscreen Daily
While this might be the most obvious solution to prevent skin cancer, it is the most effective. Typically, people only wear sunscreen when they plan to be in the open sun. However, UV rays can be just as dangerous, even when you’re inside a truck. Drivers should apply a broad-spectrum sunscreen with SPF 15 or higher at least 30 minutes before they begin driving. Sunscreen should be reapplied every 2 hours to provide consistent protection from the sun. Keeping a bottle of sunscreen in your cab can serve as a reminder to reapply when necessary.
Keep Skin Covered
Wearing protective clothing can go a long way in preventing skin cancer. When you drive, the sun primarily hits the left side of your face and body, so it’s crucial to keep these areas covered. Drivers can wear long sleeve shirts, pants, gloves and a hat to protect their skin. If possible, the clothing items should also be darker in color because they offer more protection against harmful rays. It is important to note that some fabrics do not fully protect you from the sun, so you should still wear sunscreen under these layers.
Wear High-Quality Sunglasses
When protecting your skin from sun damage, some may forget that your eyes can also be affected by the sun. According to the American Optometric Association, the longer the eyes are exposed to solar radiation, the greater the risk of developing cataracts, eye cancer, pterygium (surfer’s eye) or macular degeneration later in life. To provide adequate protection for your eyes, drivers should invest in a pair of high-quality sunglasses. When shopping, look for glasses that offer both UVA and UVB protection. Sunglasses that are labeled UV 400 are recommended by eye doctors because they offer the highest level of protection from harmful rays.
Roll the Windows Up
Nothing beats cruising with your windows down on a warm, sunny day. Unfortunately, it’s best to keep your windows rolled up, especially during peak daylight times. Between 10 a.m. and 2 p.m., the sun’s rays are most intense. Having the windows rolled up will help you avoid direct sunlight and prevent some of the UVA rays from shining in. If riding with your windows down is a must, try to do it before or after the peak daylight hours.
Get Yearly Screenings
Skin cancer can be treated and cured if it is discovered early. Drivers should perform monthly self-exams and annual screenings by their doctors. Not all skin cancers are the same, so it’s important to know what to look out for. The American Cancer Society lists a few of the most common ways in which skin cancer can appear:
- A new, expanding or changing growth, spot or bump on the skin
- A sore that bleeds and/or doesn’t heal after several weeks
- A rough or scaly red patch, which might crust or bleed
- A wart-like growth
- A mole (or another spot on the skin) that’s new or changing in size, shape or color
- A mole with an odd shape, irregular borders or areas of different colors
If you notice any of these potential signs, please reach out to a medical professional for an evaluation.
At PTP Transport, we care about the safety of our drivers. We make it our priority to educate our drivers on various topics outside of traditional trucking information including mental health, good sleeping habits and healthy eating. Visit our contact page or give us a call at 334-539-5965 to learn more about driving with us.