As the country braces for a heatwave, with temperatures set to reach nearly 30 degrees across the UK, the Federation of Master Builders (FMB) is calling on all tradespeople and homeowners to prioritise ‘sun safety’ and protect builders from the risks of working outdoors.
Construction workers face a higher risk of sunburn, heat-related illnesses, and even skin cancer due to prolonged exposure to ultraviolet (UV) rays. The Health and Safety Executive (HSE) highlights that everyone working outside is at risk, with those who have fair skin, red hair, or many moles especially vulnerable.
To help keep builders safe, the FMB is sharing eight essential sun protection measures:
- Wearing protective clothing such as long-sleeved shirts and trousers.
- Using high SPF sunscreen whenever outside.
- Wearing sunglasses or safety goggles with 100% UV protection.
- Erecting shaded areas for breaks.
- Staying hydrated – if you’re a homeowner remember to offer water
- Scheduling outside work for before 10:00 and after 15:00 (to avoid peak sun)
- Implementing a sun safety policy, including training and provision of sun protection equipment.
- Regularly checking your skin for changes to moles or other abnormalities
FMB member Dorian Bowen from Project One Ltd said: “When the sun’s turning the site into a giant oven I tell my team we have to get smart about beating the heat! We make sure we kick off our days extra early and stay hydrated. It’s absolutely mandatory to take shade breaks to recharge. Hot days might mean earlier starts but keeping the crew safe and cool is always the top job!”
Brian Berry, Chief Executive of the FMB, said: “As temperatures rise, it’s vital that everyone on site takes sun protection seriously. And it’s not just for builders to pay attention to these steps, homeowners should take note too. If you’ve got builders working in your home, remember to offer them water and access to shade if possible. At the FMB, we’re urging all builders and homeowners to prioritise these measures, not just for comfort, but to safeguard the long-term health of our workforce. Sun safety isn’t optional-it’s essential for every tradesperson.”
For more advice on health and safety in construction, visit www.fmb.org.uk.
