When you spend long days working outdoors, the last thing on your mind is usually the sun. Ladders, safety equipment, weather conditions — yes. But the invisible risk of ultraviolet radiation? That one tends to get overlooked. A timely campaign from Werner, the ladder and access equipment manufacturer, is putting UV safety back on the agenda for trade professionals — and it’s a message that’s directly relevant to anyone working on the tools.
The campaign follows research published by the Health and Safety Executive (HSE), which identified construction workers — including roofers — as a high-risk group for developing skin cancer due to sustained exposure to UV rays. That’s a sobering finding for an industry where long hours on exposed rooftops are simply part of the job.
The good news is that protecting yourself doesn’t require any major changes to your working routine. According to NHS guidance highlighted by Werner UK’s Managing Director Justin White, the basics are straightforward: apply SPF 30 or higher sunscreen before heading out, reapply throughout the day, seek shade during the strongest UV hours between 11am and 3pm, and keep an eye on any changes to moles or skin patches.
Crucially, this isn’t just a summer concern. UV rays penetrate cloud cover all year round, which means autumn and winter jobs carry real risk too. Werner’s campaign also encourages outdoor workers to stay well hydrated, take regular rest breaks, and wear suitable protective clothing — particularly during warmer months when the temptation to strip off layers is strong.
Here at Roof Doctor Oxford, we take the welfare of our team seriously — on the ground and on the roof. Whether you need a trusted local roofer in Oxford for emergency repairs, tile replacements or a full re-roof, you can be confident that we work to the highest professional standards. Visit rooferinoxford.co.uk/ to get in touch or request a free quote.