Sun Safe Workplaces: Effect of a Communication Theory-Based Occupational Skin Cancer Prevention Program on Employee Sun Safety Practices

• In Event: HIGH-DENSITY: Evaluating Communication Campaigns and Mechanisms of Effects

Abstract

Occupational skin cancer prevention is an international priority because outdoor workers are exposed to high levels of ultraviolet radiation, the primary risk factor for skin cancer. A follow-up study that assessed the impact of Sun Safe Workplaces (SSW), a communication theory-based workplace sun safety program, that promoted policy adoption and education in a randomized controlled trial, on employee sun safety behavior was conducted. Sixty-one of 98 public employers from the original study participated. Managers and line supervisors reported program implementation; 1784 outdoor workers (n=913 [intervention], n= 871 [control]) completed surveys on personal sun protection practices. Employees’ sun protection improved statistically significantly in the intervention group receiving the SSW program. SSW’s effect on employee sun protection was mediated by the number of workplace actions to implement elements of sun safety policy including sun protection messages and equipment in the workplace and employee reports of training in sun safety.

Authors

• Barbara J. Walkosz, Klein Buendel

• David B Buller, Klein Buendel, Inc.

• Mary Klein Buller, Klein Buendel, Inc.

• Allan Wallis, U of Colorado Denver

• Richard Meenan, Kaiser Permanente

• Michael D. Scott, Mikonics

• Peter A. Andersen, San Diego State U

• Gary Cutter, U of Alabama