SUN PROTECTION POLICY

SUN PROTECTION POLICY Mandatory Quality Area 2 This policy was written in consultation with Cancer Council Victoria s SunSmart Program. The SunSmart Sample Sun Protection Policy was last updated in February 2017 and is incorporated into the ELAA policy. For more detailed information visit the SunSmart website: www.sunsmart.com.au PURPOSE This policy will provide: guidelines to ensure children, staff, volunteers and others participating in Elsa Macleod Kindergarten programs and activities are well protected from overexposure to ultraviolet (UV) radiation from the sun information for parents/guardians, staff, volunteers and children attending Elsa Macleod Kindergarten regarding sun protection. POLICY STATEMENT 1. VALUES Elsa Macleod Kindergarten is committed to: promoting sun protection strategies for children, families, staff and visitors to minimise the harmful effects of over exposure to the sun s UV radiation ensuring that curriculum planning will minimise over exposure to the sun s UV radiation and also promote an awareness of sun protection and sun safe strategies providing information to children, staff, volunteers, parents/guardians and others at the service about the harmful effects of exposure to the sun s UV radiation. 2. SCOPE This policy applies to the Approved Provider, Person with Management or Control, Nominated Supervisor, Person in Day-to-Day Charge, staff, students, volunteers, parents/guardians, children and others attending the programs and activities of Elsa Macleod Kindergarten. This policy will apply whenever the sun s UV levels reach three or higher. Whenever this occurs a combination of sun protection measures are to be used for all outdoor activities. In Victoria UV levels are usually three or higher from mid-august to the end of April. Please check the daily local sun protection times (refer to Definitions) to be sure you are using sun protection when it is required. Active outdoor play is encouraged throughout the day all year, provided appropriate sun protection measures are used when necessary. 3. BACKGROUND AND LEGISLATION Background Over exposure to the sun s UV radiation can cause sunburn, skin and eye damage and skin cancer. Australia has one of the highest rates of skin cancer in the world. Children up to four years of age are particularly vulnerable to UV damage due to lower levels of melanin and a thinner stratum corneum (the outermost layer of skin). UV damage accumulated during childhood and adolescence is associated with an increased risk of skin cancer later in life. A combination of sun protection measures (hats, clothing, sunscreen, shade and sunglasses) is recommended whenever UV levels are three or higher during daily sun protection times (refer to Definitions). 2017 Early Learning Association Australia Telephone 03 9489 3500 or 1300 730 119 (rural) (Version 3) Sun Protection Policy Page 1 of 7

It is a requirement under the Occupational Health and Safety Act 2004 that employers provide a healthy and safe environment for all persons who access the service s facilities and/or programs. Legislation that governs the operation of approved children s services is based on the health, safety and welfare of the children and requires that children are protected from hazards and harm. Legislation and standards Relevant legislation and standards include but are not limited to: Child Wellbeing and Safety Act 2005 (Vic) (Part 2: Principles for Children) Education and Care Services National Law Act 2010: Section 167 Education and Care Services National Regulations 2011: including Regulations 100, 101, 113, 114, 168(2)(a)(ii) National Quality Standard, Quality Area 2: Children s Health and Safety Standard 2.3: Each child is protected Element 2.3.2: Every reasonable precaution is taken to protect children from harm and any hazard likely to cause injury Occupational Health and Safety Act 2004 4. DEFINITIONS The terms defined in this section relate specifically to this policy. For commonly used terms e.g. Approved Provider, Nominated Supervisor, Regulatory Authority etc. refer to the General Definitions section of this manual. Clothing for sun protection: Clothing that is loose-fitting, made from cool, densely woven fabric and covers as much skin as possible: tops with elbow-length sleeves and, if possible, collars and kneelength or longer shorts and skirts. Singlet tops and shoestring tops/dresses do not provide adequate protection in the sun. Daily sun protection times: Times when it is estimated that the sun s UV radiation will be three or higher. Information about the daily sun protection times is available in the weather section of the daily newspaper, on the SunSmart website at: www.sunsmart.com.au, at myuv.com.au, as a free SunSmart app and as a free widget that can be added to websites. Shade: An area sheltered from direct and indirect sun, such as a large tree, canopy, verandah or artificial cover. Shade can be built, natural or temporary and can reduce overall exposure to the sun s UV by 75%. When combined with appropriate clothing, hats and sunscreen, children can be well protected from UV over exposure when outdoors. Research shows that preschool environments with trees, shrubbery, and broken ground not only provides better sun protection in outdoor play but also triggers more physical activity. Sunhat: SunSmart recommends broad-brimmed, legionnaire or bucket-style hats that shade the face, neck and ears. Baseball caps and visors offer little protection to the cheeks, ears and neck, and are not recommended. Sunglasses: Sunglasses are optional. If worn, it is recommended that glasses are a close fitting, wraparound style that meet the Australian Standard 1067 (Sunglasses: Category 2, 3 or 4) and cover as much of the eye area as possible. Wearing a hat with a brim that shades the eyes can also reduce UV radiation to the eyes by 50%. Sunscreen: SPF 30 (or higher) broad-spectrum, water-resistant sunscreen. Sunscreen should be reapplied every two hours, even when labelled 4 hours water resistance. Monitor the expiry date and store in a cool, dry place. From 3 years of age, children are encouraged to apply their own sunscreen under supervision of staff to help develop independent skills ready for school. SunSmart: The name of the program conducted by Cancer Council to help prevent skin cancer: www.sunsmart.com.au 2017 Early Learning Association Australia Telephone 03 9489 3500 or 1300 730 119 (rural) (Version 3) Sun Protection Policy Page 2 of 7

5. SOURCES AND RELATED POLICIES Sources AS 4685.1: 2014 Playground equipment and surfacing General safety requirements and test methods Safe Work Australia: Guidance Note Sun protection for outdoor workers (2016) Cancer Council Australia: www.cancer.org.au/sunsmart Get Up & Grow: Healthy eating and physical activity for early childhood. Department of Health resources. Particularly Section 2 of the Director/Coordinator Book and the Staff Book: http://www.health.gov.au/internet/main/publishing.nsf/content/phd-early-childhood-nutritionresources SunSmart: www.sunsmart.com.au Victorian Institute of Teaching (VIT) The Victorian Teaching Profession Code of Conduct - Principle 3.2 Australian Professional Standards for Teachers (APST) Standard 4.4 and 7.2 ARPANSA Radiation Protection Standard for Occupational Exposure to Ultraviolet Radiation (2006) Belonging, Being and Becoming The Early Years Learning Framework (July 2009) Victorian Early Years Learning and Development Framework (VEYLDF) (May 2016) DET Building Quality Standards Handbook (BQSH): Section 8.5.5 Shade Areas Service policies Excursions and Service Events Policy Nutrition and Active Play Policy Occupational Health and Safety Policy Supervision of Children Policy RESPONSIBILITIES The Approved Provider and Person with Management or Control is responsible for: meeting the standards and requirements of the SunSmart early childhood program ensuring that this policy is up to date with current SunSmart recommendations: www.sunsmart.com.au ensuring parents/guardians are informed about the Sun Protection Policy on enrolment, including the need to provide an appropriate sunhat and clothing for sun protection (refer to Definitions) for their child when attending the service providing a supply of sunscreen for use on all persons to whom this policy applies ensuring parents/guardians provide an authority for staff to apply sunscreen prior to their child commencing at the service (Attachment 1) and that this is stored with each child s enrolment record (refer to General Definitions) ensuring children wear appropriate sunhats, clothing for sun protection and sunscreen when attending the service providing appropriate spare sunhats for children and adults that will be laundered after each use ensuring there is adequate shade in the service grounds to protect children from over exposure to UV radiation (Regulation 114) ensuring that program planning includes the application of a combination of sun protection measures for outdoor activities during the times specified in the Scope of this policy ensuring that the availability of shade is considered in a risk assessment prior to conducting excursions and other outdoor events (Regulations 100, 101) ensuring that information on sun protection is incorporated into the educational program (refer to the SunSmart website) 2017 Early Learning Association Australia Telephone 03 9489 3500 or 1300 730 119 (rural) (Version 3) Sun Protection Policy Page 3 of 7

ensuring all staff, children and other participants at the service wear sunhats, clothing for sun protection and sunglasses (optional) when outside, apply sunscreen and seek shade during the times specified in the Scope of this policy ensuring all staff are aware of the special needs of infants. Babies under 12 months should not be exposed to direct sun. They should remain in full shade and always be well-protected through the use of hats and cool, covering clothing when outside. With parental consent small amounts of a suitable SPF30 (or higher) broad-spectrum water-resistant sunscreen may be applied to babies over 6 months reinforcing this policy by providing information on sun protection (available on the SunSmart website) to service users via newsletters, noticeboards, meetings and websites etc. The Nominated Supervisor, Person in Day-to-Day charge and early childhood teachers are responsible for: ensuring parents/guardians are informed of the Sun Protection Policy on enrolment, including the need to provide an appropriate sunhat and clothing for sun protection (refer to Definitions) for their child when attending the service obtaining a parent s/guardian s authority for staff to apply sunscreen prior to their child commencing at the service (Attachment 1) and storing this with each child s enrolment record (refer to General Definitions) ensuring program planning includes the application of a combination of sun protection measures for outdoor activities during the times specified in the Scope of this policy ensuring educators and staff are aware of the special needs of infants. Babies under 12 months should not be exposed to direct sun. They should remain in full shade and always be well-protected through the use of hats and cool, covering clothing when outside. With parental consent small amounts of a suitable SPF30 (or higher) broad-spectrum water-resistant sunscreen may be applied to babies over 6 months. ensuring the sun protection times on the SunSmart website or the SunSmart app are accessed daily to assist with the implementation of this policy ensuring information on sun protection is incorporated into the educational program (refer to the SunSmart website) ensuring that the availability of shade is considered in a risk assessment prior to conducting excursions and other outdoor events (Regulations 100, 101). All educators are responsible for: accessing the daily sun protection times on the SunSmart or MyUV websites or the SunSmart app to assist with the implementation of this policy. Note: UV widget is located on Ipads for staff to access. UV levels are recorded daily on the blackboard at the entrance of Elsa Macleod Kindergarten for staff and parents to see each day. wearing sunhats, clothing for sun protection (refer to Definitions) and sunglasses (optional) when outside, applying sunscreen and seeking shade during the times specified in the Scope of this policy ensuring each child, and any other participant at the service, wears an appropriate sunhat, clothing for sun protection and sunscreen for all outdoor activities during the times specified in the Scope of this policy keeping babies under 12 months out of direct sun whenever UV levels are three or higher checking that all sunhats brought to the service meet the SunSmart recommendation for adequate protection, are named and stored individually ensuring spare sunhats are laundered after each use applying sunscreen (refer to Definitions) to children s exposed skin except in cases where parents/guardians have not given authority. Where possible this should be done 20 minutes before going outdoors. Children, where appropriate, will be encouraged to apply sunscreen with the assistance of an educator (sunscreen is to be reapplied every two hours) storing sunscreen in a cool place and monitoring the expiry date including for sunscreen supplied by parents/guardians 2017 Early Learning Association Australia Telephone 03 9489 3500 or 1300 730 119 (rural) (Version 3) Sun Protection Policy Page 4 of 7

ensuring that children without appropriate sunhats or clothing for sun protection play in the shade or in a suitable area protected from the sun encouraging children to seek shade when playing outside and utilise shaded areas for outdoor equipment that is not fixed during the times specified in the Scope of this policy encouraging children to wear sunhats when travelling to and from the service ensuring that sun protection strategies are a priority when planning excursions co-operating with their employer with respect to any action taken by the employer to comply with the Occupational Health and Safety Act 2004. Parents/guardians are responsible for: providing a named, SunSmart approved sunhat (refer to Definitions) for their child s use at the service applying sunscreen to their child before the commencement of each session during the times specified in the Scope of this policy providing written authority for staff to apply sunscreen to their child providing, at their own expense, an alternative sunscreen to be left at the service if their child has a particular sensitivity to the sunscreen provided by the service wearing a sunhat, clothing for sun protection (refer to Definitions) and sunglasses (optional) when outside at the service, applying sunscreen and seeking shade during the times specified in the Scope of this policy. Volunteers and students, while at the service, are responsible for following this policy and its procedures. EVALUATION In order to assess whether the values and purposes of the policy have been achieved, the Approved Provider and Person with Management or Control will: regularly seek feedback from educators, staff, parents/guardians, children, management and all affected by the policy regarding its effectiveness monitor the implementation, compliance, complaints and incidents in relation to this policy keep the policy up to date with current legislation, research, policy and best practice revise the policy and procedures as part of the service s policy review cycle, or as required notify parents/guardians at least 14 days before making any change to this policy or its procedures. ATTACHMENTS Attachment 1: Authority for staff to administer sunscreen AUTHORISATION This policy was adopted by the Approved Provider of Elsa Macleod Kindergarten in October 2017. REVIEW DATE: FEBRUARY 2020 ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS This policy has been reviewed and approved by Cancer Council Victoria in March 2017. 2017 Early Learning Association Australia Telephone 03 9489 3500 or 1300 730 119 (rural) (Version 3) Sun Protection Policy Page 5 of 7

ATTACHMENT 1 Authority for staff to administer sunscreen Authority for staff to administer sunscreen provided by the service I,, give/do not give permission for the staff at Elsa Macleod Kindergarten to apply, as appropriate, SPF 30 (or higher) broad-spectrum, water-resistant sunscreen to all exposed parts of my child s body. Name of child Signature (parent/guardian) Date Authority for staff to administer sunscreen provided by the parent/guardian I,, give permission for the staff at Elsa Macleod Kindergarten to apply, as appropriate, to all exposed parts of my child s body the sunscreen that I have supplied and labelled with my child/children s name. This sunscreen is an SPF 30 (or higher) broadspectrum, water-resistant sunscreen. I understand that this sunscreen will be kept at the service. It is my responsibility to ensure there is always an adequate supply of this sunscreen at the service. Name of child Signature (parent/guardian) Date 2017 Early Learning Association Australia Telephone 03 9489 3500 or 1300 730 119 (rural) (Version 3) Sun Protection Policy Page 6 of 7

The UV Index from A Guide to the UV Index US Environmental Protection Agency 2017 Early Learning Association Australia Telephone 03 9489 3500 or 1300 730 119 (rural) (Version 3) Sun Protection Policy Page 7 of 7

Sunscreen Cancer Council Victoria recommends using SPF30 or higher broad-spectrum, water-resistant sunscreen. However sunscreen alone will not provide adequate protection against overexposure to ultraviolet (UV) radiation. Cancer Council recommends five steps to protect against sun damage during the daily sun protection times (when the UV level is 3 and above): 1. Slip on sun-protective clothing. 2. Slop on SPF30 or higher sunscreen make sure it is broad-spectrum and water-resistant. Put it on 20 minutes before you go outdoors and re-apply every two hours. 3. Slap on a hat that protects your face, head, neck and ears. 4. Seek shade. 5. Slide on sunglasses make sure they meet Australian Standards. UV levels are most intense during the middle of the day. Check the daily sun protection times, available: on the free SunSmart app online at sunsmart.com.au or bom.gov.au/weather/uv in the weather section of newspapers as a free website widget. The sun protection times show when the UV Index is forecast to be 3 or above. What is SPF? Sunscreens with a sun protection factor (SPF) of 4 and above are listed on the Australian Register of the Therapeutic Goods Administration. 1 Products can only be listed on the register if they comply with the Australian/New Zealand Standard for sunscreen products (AS/NZS 2604:2012). 2 The highest SPF for sunscreen available in Australia is SPF50+. The SPF number is only a guide to a sunscreen s protection. How long a person will take to burn depends on the time of day, time of year, amount of UV reflection, how cloudy it is and their skin type. In laboratory conditions, when used as directed, SPF30 sunscreen filters 96.7% of UV radiation and SPF50 filters 98%. Both provide excellent protection if they are applied properly. 3 Applying sunscreen Apply sunscreen 20 minutes before you go outside and again every two hours (whether or not the label tells you to do this). Use a generous amount of sunscreen. The average-sized adult should apply more than half a teaspoon of sunscreen (about 3 ml) to each arm and the face/neck (including ears), and just over one teaspoon (about 6 ml) to each leg, front of body and back of body. 4 That is, 35 ml of sunscreen for one full body application, for an average-sized adult. Many Australians apply too little sunscreen and forget to re-apply every two hours. This means they usually get less than half the protection stated on the product label. 3 Sunscreen can be easily wiped off, lost through perspiration and is often applied unevenly in the first place. Putting on more sunscreen every two hours helps keep you protected. Always reapply after swimming or water sports. The free SunSmart app includes a sunscreen calculator and a reminder that can be set to sound every two hours reminding you to reapply. What does broad-spectrum mean? There are different types of UV radiation. UVA radiation penetrates deep into the skin, affecting the living skin cells that lie under the skin s surface. UVA causes long-term damage like wrinkles, blotchiness, sagging and roughening, and also contributes to skin cancer. UVB radiation penetrates the top layer of skin and is the main cause of skin damage and skin cancer. Broad-spectrum sunscreen filters both UVA and UVB radiation. What s in sunscreen and how does it work? Sunscreens contain ingredients that absorb UV radiation. Examples include octyl methoxycinnamate (OMC) and methylbenzylidene camphor, prime UVB filters; and butyl methoxycinnamate, a prime UVA filter.

Sunscreen Some ingredients absorb and reflect UV radiation, such as zinc oxide and titanium dioxide, which are also prime UVA and UVB filters. Is sunscreen safe to use? There is clear evidence that regular use of sunscreens helps prevent skin cancer. Long-term studies of sunscreen use in Australia have found no harmful effects of regular use. 5,6 The Therapeutic Goods Administration monitors the scientific literature regarding the safety of specific ingredients of sunscreens. Its conclusions are that there is no evidence that sunscreens containing these ingredients pose any risk to those using them. 7 There have been questions raised about the safety of sunscreens that contain nanoparticles. The available evidence suggests that nanoparticles used in sunscreens do not pose a risk to health. 8 Which sunscreen should I use? Sunscreen can be bought as a cream, lotion, milk or gel. Choose one that best suits your skin type and activity and that you find easy to reapply. If you have sensitive skin and have had a reaction to a sunscreen, try a fragrance-free product. If you don t want sunscreen residue to remain on your hands, a gel may work best for you. Not all sunscreens contain the same ingredients. If your skin reacts to one sunscreen, talk to a chemist or doctor about choosing one with different ingredients. Don t rely on price as an indication of sunscreen quality. Make sure the sunscreen you choose is at least SPF30, broad-spectrum and within its use-by date. Sunscreen and babies The Australasian College of Dermatologists states that because very young babies (less than six months of age) absorb more of any chemical applied to the skin than adults, the widespread regular use of chemical sunscreens is not recommended. The American Academy of Pediatrics has stated that sunscreens may be used on infants younger than six months on small areas of skin if adequate clothing and shade are not available. Many brands of sunscreen have a baby or toddler formula. These are just as protective, but much gentler on their skin. Look for sunscreens that have been dermatologically tested for sensitive skin. How long can you keep sunscreen? Check the expiry date and storage conditions on the label. Most sunscreens last about two to three years. They should be stored at a temperature below 30ºC. If left in excessive heat (e.g. in the glove box of a hot car or in the sun on the beach), over time, the product may not work as well. Sunscreen use and vitamin D Regular use of sunscreen when the UV radiation level reaches 3 or above does not greatly decrease vitamin D levels over time. 9 11 Sunscreen tested in laboratory conditions does block vitamin D production, however regular use in real life has been shown to have little effect on vitamin D levels. This is because people don t usually use enough sunscreen, so UV can still reach the skin. Those people who use sunscreen also tend to spend more time in the sun, so are more likely to have higher vitamin D levels. 12 Further information and resources More information is available at sunsmart.com.au. UV-protective clothing and accessories can be purchased at the Cancer Council Victoria s shop or online at cancervic.org.au/store. References 1 Therapeutic Goods Administration. Australian Regulatory Guidelines for OTC Medicines: Sunscreens. Canberra: Commonwealth Department of Health & Ageing 2003. 2 Standards Australia, Standards New Zealand. Australian/New Zealand Standard AS/NZ 2604:2012. Sunscreen products evaluation and classification. 3 Schalka S, Silva dos Reis VM, Cucé LC. The influence of the amount of sunscreen applied and its sun protection factor (SPF): Evaluation of two sunscreens including the same ingredients at different concentrations. Photodermatology, Photoimmunology & Photomedicine 2009;25(4):175 80. 4 Schneider J. The teaspoon rule of applying sunscreen. Archives of Dermatology 2002;138(6):838 9. 5 van der Pols JC, Williams GM, Pandeya N, Logan V, Green AC. Prolonged prevention of squamous cell carcinoma of the skin by regular sunscreen use. Cancer Epidemiology, Biomarkers & Prevention 2006;15(12):2546 8. 6 Green AC, Williams GM, Logan V, Strutton GM. Reduced melanoma after regular sunscreen use: randomized trial follow-up. Journal of Clinical Oncology 2011;29(3):257 63. 7 Therapeutic Goods Administration. TGA fact sheet: Sunscreens. Commonwealth Department of Health and Ageing 2010. Retrieved from: http://www.tga.gov.au/safety/alerts-medicine-sunscreens-051202.htm on 21 June 2012 8 Therapeutic Goods Administration. Literature review on the safety of titanium dioxide and zinc oxide nanoparticles in sunscreens. Commonwealth Department of Health and Ageing: Canberra, Australia 2013. Available from http://tga.gov.au/industry/sunscreensnanoparticles-review-2013.htm 9 Marks R, Foley PA, Jolley D, Knight KR, Harrison J, Thompson SC. The effect of regular sunscreen use on vitamin-d levels in an Australian population results of a randomized controlled trial. Archives of Dermatology 1995;131(4):415 21. 10 Farrerons J, Barnadas M, Rodríguez J, Renau A, Yoldi B, López-Navidad A, Moragas J. Clinically prescribed sunscreen (sun protection factor 15) does not decrease serum vitamin D concentration sufficiently either to induce changes in parathyroid function or in metabolic markers. British Journal of Dermatology 1998;139(3):422 7. 11 Norval M, Wulf HC. Does chronic sunscreen use reduce vitamin D production to insufficient levels? British Journal of Dermatology 2009;161(4):732 6. 12 Jayaratne N, Russell A, van der Pols JC. Sun protection and vitamin D status in an Australian subtropical community. Preventive Medicine 2012;55(2):146 50. This information is based on current available evidence at the time of review. It can be photocopied for distribution. Updated: January 2017

Shade Shade is a practical, user-friendly form of sun protection. Well-designed and positioned shade can significantly reduce UV exposure as well as create cool, comfortable spaces. Shade can be natural, man-made or a combination of both. It can be permanent, temporary or portable. Ideally shade should be factored in at the planning phase of all new buildings and facilities that have outdoor spaces. The ideal shade scenario There is enough shade to protect people during the sun protection times, when the UV reaches 3 and above. In Victoria this is generally from September to the end of April. Shade protects users from direct and indirect UV. There is a combination of built and natural shade. Built shade structures provide predictable, reliable coverage, while natural shade is aesthetically pleasing and environmentally friendly. Shade is easily accessible, attractive, in good condition and regularly maintained. Shade does not provide 100% protection. Some of the sun's UV can still reach you in the shade so always combine shade with protective clothing, a broad-brimmed hat, sunglasses and SPF 30 or higher sunscreen. Planning effective shade Good planning ensures effective shade. Whatever the scale of the project: identify where and when shade is needed understand your shade options consider built shade consider natural shade. What is the shaded area to be used for? Is this area mainly used for passive activities, active play, sports, spectators or all of these? This will help determine the best type of shade structure to use. Will the shade affect user comfort? Shade areas must provide UV protection from September to April and provide cool spaces in summer. Adequate light and ventilation are also important. If the shaded area is permanent, it also needs to be warm and protected from the weather in winter so that people will still want to use it. Understanding your shade options Built shade structures Permanent structures: these must provide UV protection and cool spaces from September to April and be warm and protected from the weather in winter. They should be able to withstand harsh weather conditions and high winds. Adjustable systems: these are often very flexible, allowing for changes in shade as the sun moves during the day and at different times of the year. Shade sails: these usually require minimal support structures making them ideal when you have limited space. The design and construction of these structures is a specialised field; you will need to engage professionals to design and build this type of shade. Temporary structures: are easy to set up and take down, these include portable structures such as large tents, marquees and beach shelters. These are good for a space that only needs shade occasionally. Pre-made structures: are ready for installation on any site. They can offer a cost-effective, readily available shade solution. You will need to ensure that it is safe and provides adequate shade in the right area at the right time.

Shade Textile and shade cloth covered structures Textile or coated fabric such as canvas can provide up to 99% UV block. Features can include tight weave; coating to resist mildew, rot and light exposure; and water resistance. It often has a shorter lifespan than shade cloth. This information is based on available evidence at the time of review. It can be photocopied for distribution. Latest update: April 2014 Good-quality shade cloth is an important part of your shade structure. However, effective shade depends on more than the shade cloth you use. The location of the structure in relation to the area you want shaded, its size and height, and any surrounding reflective surfaces, will all contribute to the quality of shade provided. Shade cloth may be either woven or knitted. It allows some light, air and water through and usually has a lifespan of up to 15 years, but only offers limited protection against UV radiation. Natural shade Natural shade is well suited to large recreational areas such as parks and reserves and has a cooling effect and other environmental benefits. The most suitable shade trees have large canopies, dense foliage, are appropriate for the soil type, climate and available water in the area, and are easily accessible. A higher canopy usually provides less overall shade. Avoid species with spiky branches, fruit or seed pods that could drop or attract bees or cause allergic reactions. It is best to seek professional advice about your particular site and a tree species that will perform well over many years. Local councils usually have trained horticulturalists or landscape architects on staff who will be able to suggest the best tree for your conditions. Be sure to explain that you want a tree with a generous shade canopy during the period September to April. Further information and resources Shade Guidelines (PDF) and Creating Effective Shade: an online shade audit tool and other information is available at sunsmart.com.au or contact the Cancer Council on 13 11 20. UV-protective clothing and accessories can be purchased at Cancer Council Victoria s shop or online at cancervic.org.au/store.

Outdoor play the SunSmart way! SunSmart acknowledges the importance of active, outdoor play for overall health and development. To ensure children can engage in fun, sun safe outdoor play throughout the day, please follow the 5 SunSmart steps during the daily sun protection times. Why? Too much of the sun s UV radiation can cause sunburn, skin and eye damage and skin cancer. Infants and toddlers up to four years of age are particularly vulnerable to UV damage due to lower levels of melanin and a thinner stratum corneum (the outermost layer of skin). UV damage accumulated during childhood and adolescence is associated with an increased risk of skin cancer later in life. 3. Slap on a wide brimmed hat that shades the face, neck, ears and eyes. Baseball or peak caps don t measure up so leave those on the hat rack! 4. Seek shade try a shady tree, verandah, pergola or shade sail, umbrella or tepee! 5. Slide on some sunglasses where practical. They should be labelled AS 1067 so you know they are UV protected. Shady play Good quality shade can reduce overall exposure to the sun s UV. When combined with appropriate clothing, hats and sunscreen, children can be well protected from UV overexposure when outdoors. Research shows that spacious preschool environments with trees, shrubbery, and broken ground triggers more physical activity and provides better sun protection in outdoor play. Shady and natural play spaces are also requirements of the Education and Care Services National Regulations (Reg. 113,114) How shady is your outdoor play space? How? Check SunSmart s daily sun protection times so you know when you do and don t need sun protection each day. These are available as a free app, online (sunsmart.com.au or myuv.com.au), in the weather section of the newspaper or as a free website widget. Perhaps you can add the widget to your service s website? If you can t check the sun protection times each day, use these 5 SunSmart steps from mid- August to the end of April in Victoria (NOT just terms one and four). 1. Slip on cool, covering clothing that covers as much skin as possible. 2. Slop on SPF 30 (or higher) broad-spectrum, water-resistant sunscreen. Make sure you apply a generous amount and keep reapplying it every 2 hours. Check the expiry date. Phone: 9514 6415 Email: sunsmart@cancervic.org.au February 2017

We are SunSmart - a note for families Too much UV can cause sunburn, skin and eye damage and skin cancer. 4. Seek shade choose shady spots for play whenever possible. 5. Slide on some sunglasses - if practical and approved by the service. Make sure they are labelled AS 1067 and cover as much of the eye area as possible. Overexposure to UV during childhood and adolescence is a major factor for future skin cancer risk. You can t see or feel the sun s UV so don t be fooled. Whatever the weather, if the UV levels are three or more, it s important to Slip, Slop, Slap, Seek and Slide! Our service aims to protect children and staff from too much UV to help minimise future skin cancer risk. We are a registered member of the Cancer Council Victoria s SunSmart Program. Please help support our SunSmart membership by ensuring your child follows the SunSmart measures encouraged by educators. During the daily local sun protection times (issued whenever UV levels are three and above), use these 5 SunSmart steps even if it s cool and cloudy. 1. Slip on a shirt - dress your child in clothing that covers as much skin as possible (e.g. elbow length tops with a higher neckline or collar and longer style shorts or skirts). Densely woven fabrics are best. 2. Slop on SPF 30 (or higher ) broad-spectrum, water-resistant sunscreen apply a generous amount of sunscreen at the start of the day and provide permission for sunscreen to be reapplied to your child before they go outdoors. This should be applied every two hours. From 3 years of age, please help your child apply their own sunscreen so they can start to learn independent skills. 3. Slap on a hat one that protects the face, neck and ears such as a broad brimmed, legionnaire or bucket style hat. Peak caps do not offer enough protection and are not recommended by SunSmart. Please help your child remember to bring and wear their approved sun hat. Sun protection times Don t just wait for hot and sunny days to use sun protection. Check the sun protection times each day so your family can be protected when they need to be. Daily local sun protection times and weather details are available on the free SunSmart app or widget, in the weather section of the newspaper and on the SunSmart website at sunsmart.com.au. Sun protection times can also be found at the Bureau of Meteorology website and live UV levels are available from ARPANSA. Further information contact SunSmart P: 03 9514 6419 E: sunsmart@cancervic.org.au W: sunsmart.com.au

Sun protective hats To protect skin and eyes from ultraviolet (UV) radiation, Cancer Council Victoria recommends hats that protect the face, back of the neck, eyes and ears. Broad-brimmed, bucket or legionnaire hats offer the best protection from UV radiation, providing the brim is wide enough. Baseball or peaked caps and sun visors are not recommended as they leave the ears and the back of the neck exposed. During the daily sun protection times (when the UV Index is at 3 or above) SunSmart recommends using a combination of the five sun protection measures: 1. Slip on sun-protective clothing. 2. Slop on SPF30 or higher broad spectrum, water-resistant sunscreen and re-apply every two hours. 3. Slap on a hat that protects your face, head, neck and ears. 4. Seek shade. 5. Slide on sunglasses make sure they meet Australian Standards. UV levels are most intense during the middle of the day. Check the daily sun protection times, available as a free SunSmart app, online at sunsmart.com.au or bom.gov.au/weather/uv, in the weather section of newspapers, or as a free website widget. The sun protection times show when the UV Index is forecast to be 3 or above. Live UV levels for capital cities are available from arpansa.gov.au/uvindex/realtime Which type of hat? Wear a hat that provides good shade to the face, back of the neck, eyes and ears. Broad-brimmed and bucket hats provide the most UV radiation protection for the face and head. Legionnaire hats also provide good UV radiation protection. Baseball caps do not protect the head and face. 1 Wearing a hat with a brim that shades the eyes can also reduce UV radiation to the eyes by 50%. 2 Broad-brimmed hat* Brims should shade the face, neck and ears. Bucket hat* Bucket or surfer-style hats should have a deep crown and sit low on the head. The angled brim should provide the face, neck and ears with plenty of shade. *Please see table on the next page for recommended brim width measurements according to age range and head wear size. Legionnaire hat Legionnaire hats should have a flap that covers the neck. The side flap and front peak should overlap to protect the side of the face. Legionnaire hats are more suited to people who are active or doing activities involving bending. Baseball caps and visors offer little protection to the cheeks, ears and neck and are therefore NOT recommended.

Sun protective hats Recommended brim width measurements Indicative age group Headwear size Children Infants: 00-1 year 41cm- 43cm Toddler: 1-49cm- 2 years old 52cm 3-8 years 50cmold 54cm 8-12 years 55cmold 57cm Adults S/M 55cm- 57cm M/L 57cm- 59cm L/XL 59cm- 61cm XXL 62cm- 63cm Broadbrimmed minimum brim width 5cm 5cm 5cm 6cm 7.5cm 7.5cm 7.5cm 7.5cm Bucket Style minimum brim width 5cm 5cm 5cm 6cm 6cm 6cm 6cm 6cm When choosing a hat look at: the quality of sun protection it offers the type of fabric it is made from a tighter fabric structure is best the fabric s UPF label fabric with UPF15 offers good protection while one that is UPF50 offers excellent protection. Even if the fabric is excellent, make sure the hat s overall design is effective too. whether it is practical (i.e. easy to keep on and doesn t interfere with activities) cost safety ventilation (especially if the hat is to be used during physical activity or in warmer weather). Considerations for babies and toddlers When choosing a hat for young children, consider the size and comfort, the amount of shade it provides and if it will obstruct vision or hearing. Hats that can be adjusted at the crown or can be tied at the front to help secure it on a child s head are best. If the hat is secured with a long strap and toggle, ensure it has a safety snap, place the strap at the back of their head or trim the length so it doesn t become a choking hazard. Hat accessories Sun protection accessories such as broad-brim attachments or legionnaire-style covers are available for workers who are required to use a helmet or hard hat. There are also attachments for cyclists to provide protection while wearing their helmet. Further information and resources Visit sunsmart.com.au or contact the Cancer Council on 13 11 20. UV-protective clothing and accessories can be purchased at Cancer Council Victoria s shop or online at cancervic.org.au/store. References 1 Gies P, Javorniczky J, Roy C, Henderson S, Australian Radiation Protection and Nuclear Safety Agency. Measurements of the UVR protection provided by hats used at school. Photochemistry & Photobiology 2006;82:750 4. 2 Rosenthal FS, West SK, Muñoz B, Emmett EA, Strickland PT, Taylor HR. Ocular and facial skin exposure to ultraviolet radiation in sunlight: a personal exposure model with application to a worker population. Health Physics 1991;61(1):77 86. This information is based on current available evidence at the time of review. It can be photocopied for distribution. Latest update: June 2016 Many babies and toddlers do not like to wear hats. Persistence is needed to teach them that a hat is part of their outside routine. For babies, choose a design such as a soft legionnaire hat that will crumple easily when they put their head down.

You know what to do. Do it. For further information visit SunSmart.com.au or call 13 11 20

Today s sun protection times date from to Protect yourself in five ways from skin cancer 30+ Daily sun protection times (issued when the UV index is forecast to be 3 and above) can be found on the SunSmart app, online at sunsmart.com.au or in daily newspapers.