National UV Safety Month: Protecting Our Crews During Peak Summer Exposure

July is National UV Safety Month, making it the perfect time to focus on one of the most overlooked job site hazards: prolonged exposure to the sun. While heavy equipment, excavation hazards, and weather events often take center stage in construction safety discussions, ultraviolet (UV) radiation presents a serious risk to crews working outdoors every day.

At Plateau Excavation, safety extends beyond the work itself. Protecting our employees means recognizing every hazard on the job site—including those we can’t always see.

Why UV Safety Matters

Construction professionals spend hours working in direct sunlight, often during the hottest months of the year. Even on cloudy days, up to 80% of the sun’s UV rays can penetrate cloud cover, exposing workers to harmful radiation.

Repeated UV exposure can lead to:

• Sunburn
• Premature skin aging
• Eye damage
• Heat-related illnesses
• Increased risk of skin cancer

Because these effects build over time, making UV protection part of the daily routine is essential.

Simple Ways to Protect Against UV Exposure on the Job Site

Wear the Right Protective Clothing

Long-sleeved, lightweight, moisture-wicking shirts and long pants provide an additional layer of protection without sacrificing comfort. Wide-brim hard hat attachments can also help shield exposed skin.

Apply Sunscreen Daily

Workers should apply a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher before beginning work and reapply every two hours—or more often if sweating heavily.

Protect Your Eyes

Safety glasses with UV protection help reduce the risk of long-term eye damage while still meeting job site safety requirements.

Take Advantage of Shade

Whenever possible, crews should take breaks in shaded areas, especially during the strongest sunlight between 10:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m. Temporary shade structures can make a significant difference during longer projects.

Stay Hydrated

UV exposure often goes hand in hand with extreme summer temperatures. Drinking water consistently throughout the day helps regulate body temperature and reduces the risk of heat-related illnesses. Hydration should begin before workers feel thirsty.

Building a Culture of Sun Safety

Creating a safer job site means building habits that become second nature. Daily toolbox talks, regular hydration reminders, providing crews with proper rehydration tools (i.e. electrolyte packets) and encouraging workers to look out for one another all contribute to a stronger safety culture.

UV safety is not just about preventing a sunburn—it’s about protecting the long-term health of every employee who works outdoors.

Plateau’s Commitment to Safety

At Plateau Excavation, every project begins with a commitment to safety. Whether it’s preparing for severe weather, implementing excavation best practices, or protecting crews from prolonged sun exposure, we believe every precaution matters.

The work we do is demanding, but safeguarding the people who make it possible will always remain our highest priority. So this National UV Safety Month, take a few extra minutes to protect yourself and your team.