Now that summer is in full swing, it presents different ways to engage with your employees in the outdoors rather than be stuck inside all day. Whether that means having team meetings outdoors or having team building activities in nature, it’s a great way to start building your company culture. But while you all enjoy the great outdoors, it’s crucial that you and your employees stay protected from the sun’s harmful rays. Protecting employees from sun damage helps to keep a healthy, successful team.
Provide Sunscreen For Outdoor Activities
If you do choose to spend hours outside, make sure you have sunscreen available for employees. According to the American Academy of Dermatology Association, applying sunscreen with at least an SPF of 30 helps block the vast majority of the sun’s harmful rays. You’ll also want to make sure it’s a broad spectrum sunscreen so it protects against the two types of rays from the sun. By providing sunscreen for any outdoor activities you all participate in, you are protecting your employees from short-term effects, like painful sunburns, and long-term effects, like the potential of developing skin cancer.
Limit Time Outside
If you do choose to have outdoor events, you’ll want to limit the amount of time outdoors. That way, the risk of getting burned or the risk of developing skin cancer decreases. For example, if you need an update from a team member, you may take that meeting outdoors to get some fresh air and time away from the computer, which can help with mindfulness on the job. Because you won’t be outside for long periods of time, you won’t need to worry about sunburn or skin cancer.
Stay Near Shady Areas
However, if you do choose to spend longer periods time outdoors, you’ll want to stay near shady areas. If your employees can take cover under a large tent or a tree that provides lots of shade, it will keep everyone comfortable as the sun won’t be beating down on you. Since you aren’t directly in the sunlight, it will help keep your skin protected.
Know Peak Sun Hours
Finally, you’ll want to know what the peak sun hours are for your area. Typically, that’s about 10 AM until 2 PM, but could vary depending on your location. Avoid spending excessive amounts of time in the sun during those times, which are when the sun’s rays can cause the most damage.
This summer, when you and your employees have some fun in the sun during or after work, make sure to protect the skin you’re in. Not only will protecting employees from sun damage help keep everyone looking younger, it also reduces the likelihood of someone developing skin cancer. When your team is operating at full capacity and is healthy, it leads to a successful team. At Sterling Wellness Solutions, we work with you and the lives in your organization to help you build a health and wellness culture. If you’re looking to incorporate a corporate wellness program in your organization, contact Sterling Wellness Solutions for your demo today.
