Sunscreens and Taxes

Are your outdoor workers on the dark side of the moon?

By Helen Borger

New tax deductions for sunglasses, hats and sunscreen lotion are a step forward for outdoor workers and employers, but the suns rays are an OHS hazard that requires more than just slip, slop, slap.

Employer should not see this as means of reducing OHS costs because these things can be tax deductible. Employers can still be in breach of OHS laws if they do not have work systems that minimise potential exposure to harmful sunlight. High protection sunscreen is not able to protect skin fully from harmful exposure, even if used properly. The Australian Cancer Society recommends workplaces develop sun protection strategies that include the following:

· periodic assessment of climatic conditions and clothing requirements

· shade or shelter or relocating tasks to shaded areas.

· rescheduling work to times where exposure to harmful rays are less intense.

· protective equipment

· training all employees to increase their knowledge of the harmful effects and the benefits of early detection and skin self-examination

· documenting strategies as policy in consultation with employees and unions

· monitoring and compliance

If work can be done indoors do it there.

(CCH's Australian OHS Magazine; August/September 2002)