Australia has one of the highest rates of skin cancer in the world.

UV radiation is responsible for 95% of all skin cancers in Australia.

To limit your exposure, it’s critical to understand what UV radiation is, what influences it, and how to prevent exposure.
So what is UV radiation and the factors that influence it?

What is UV radiation?

The sun produces three different types of energy. The first is visible light, which we see as sunlight. The second is infrared radiation, which we feel as heat. The third is UV radiation, which cannot see or feel. UV radiation and infrared radiation are often confused. However, the temperature does not affect UV radiation. UV radiation can still be high on a cool or cold day, especially if the sky is clear.

It’s important to remember that UV radiation is not just a summer concern. It’s present throughout the year, so we need to be vigilant and prepared for its effects.

What are the three types of UV?

There are three types of UV radiation. However, there is only one we really need to worry about. The first is UVA, which can cause sunburn, skin cell damage and skin cancer.

The second is UVB, which also causes skin damage and skin cancer. Thankfully, however, the ozone layer prevents most of it from reaching the earth’s surface. UVC is the most dangerous type of UV. However, Ozone in the atmosphere absorbs all UVC.

UVC is the most dangerous type of UV. However, Ozone in the atmosphere absorbs all UVC.

What factors influence UV levels?

Several factors contribute to UV levels. These include time of day, time of year, geographic location, and cloud cover.
This means that UV levels may be higher in some areas than others even on the same day.
UV radiation begins at sunrise and increases in intensity during the morning, peaking around the middle of the day, before decreasing in intensity until sunset. UV radiation is usually highest between 10 am and 2 pm or 11am and 3pm during daylight saving.

Therefore, if you regularly use a space during this time, it is worth investing in quality shade protection such as a shade sail. Choosing a quality custom-made product will ensure better protection is provided.

Quality shade structures can provide up to 99% protection from the sun’s harmful UV rays.

You don’t have to stand in the sun to be exposed to UV radiation. UV radiation can also reflect off surfaces. This is especially the case for smooth, shiny, and light-coloured surfaces and natural surfaces like sand, water, and snow.

The below diagram shows the average UV index for different locations in Australia. (source: Bureau Of Meteorology)

What is the UV index?

The UV index is a tool that you can use to help you protect yourself from UV rays. It provides a guide as to when sun protection is most important.
UV Index is divided into the following levels:

Low 1-2
Moderate 3-5
High 6-7
Very high 8-10
Extreme 11 and above

When the UV index is projected to be 3 or above, it is recommended that you use all five forms of sun protection. Wear sunscreen with a high SPF, UV-protective sunglasses, a wide-brimmed hat, and a long-sleeved shirt, and make sure you seek shade. Importantly, sunscreen does not block out UV radiation; it just filters it. Therefore, it should be reapplied regularly.
The UV Index is available on the Bureau Of Meteorology website or the SunSmart app.

You should check the UV index if you are planning or participating in an outdoor activity or event, undertaking outdoor recreational activities such as running, cycling, swimming, or team sports, watching spectator sports, working outdoors, or responsible for children undertaking outdoor activities.

By understanding UV radiation and how to prevent it, you can enjoy spending time outdoors while knowing you are protected from the sun’s harsh effects.

Article References

1. Bureau of Meteorology (n.d) Average Solar Ultraviolet (UV) Index, Bureau Of Meteorology, accessed 26 July 2024.
2. Cancer Council (n.d) UV levels, Cancer Council, accessed 26 July 2024.
3. NSW Safework (n.d) Ultraviolet (UV) Radiation, NSW Safework, accessed 26 July 2024.
4. SunSmart (2020) UV radiation, SunSmart, accessed 26 July 2024.