Posted By Jack I know from previous discussions on this topic that there are diverse views. However, I share your concerns. It even seems to cut across the fairly recently reissued advice from the HSE which says nothing about sunscreen being 'issued' but concentrates on employers 'encouraging' employees to use it. I quote a couple of paragraphs: Encourage workers to use sunscreen of at least SPF (Sun Protection Factor) 15 on any part of the body they can’t cover up and to apply it as directed on the product. They might prefer to use a spray or an alcohol-based (non-greasy) sunscreen Encourage workers to keep covered up during the summer months - especially at lunch time when the sun is at its hottest. They can cover up with a long-sleeved shirt, and a hat with a brim or flap that protects the ears and neck.

Posted By Nigel Hammond When I worked for a local authority, we had this debate every year with parks staff. Our advice was to follow the hierarchy of controls: avoid exposure to the sun where possible, failing that cover up with clothes and hats, finally as a last resort provide sun tan lotion - but only if the risk assessment justifies it. However, none of the risk assessments seem to end up justifying suntan lotion - even for lifeguards of an outdoor pool. If you do have to issue suntan lotion. It might be worth considering 'P20' which is sold in Superdrug. I use it on my children as recommended by their school because it lasts all day and is waterproof. It is expensive but you don't have to keep re-applying it.

Posted By John Allen Whoops - wrong thread!

Posted By David A Jones If you have identified exposure to the sun as a significant risk to your employees within a risk assessment then you must take some action to minimise that risk so far as is reasonably practicable. This may be done by the issue of suitable PPE such as sun hats an the insistence that they cover up e.g. long sleeve shirts that are SPF rated etc. You may consider that toatl cover up is impracticable and therefore propose the use of a sun creams etc. If the use of sun creams is your control measure then the employer is duty bound to provide it as it constitutes PPE - note this does not mean you have to buy the most expensive designer creams that some may want - bulk supplies can be sourced and distributed as appropriate.

Posted By Ian Forster To supply Sunscreen would be a nightmare, as it would be a supply on demand item, every employee would be getting it for his wife, kids, family and friends. As soon as an employee was told no, the implications would be un thinkable. I worked for a Local Authority and to be honest I can just see it now, it would be a bottle aday, I still have PPE which i've never used and thats going back 5 years, Dc Matrins and alike. the best and most cost effective would be to provide suitable clothing, Base ball caps with flaps, long sleeve cotton tops, etc. and remember to put company logo on so employees can claim there washing allowance from the tax man