Section 5.17.6 – Sun Protection Policy
Amended 2016
(a) Introduction
(i) It is well known that Australia has the highest incidence of skin cancer in the world.
(ii) Levels of ultraviolet radiation are particularly high in many locations around Australia.
(iii) Many sporting events organised by the NSWPSSA and its member associations are conducted outdoors and in locations which have been identified as high skin cancer risk areas, particularly at certain times of the day.
(iv) It is therefore incumbent on the NSWPSSA and its member associations to protect students and staff to the greatest extent possible from the dangers of exposure to the sun.
(b) Aims
The aims of this policy are to promote
(i) An awareness of the dangers of the exposure to the sun and the need for protective measures.
(ii) The need for positive attitudes and responsible behaviours toward skin protection.
(iii) Practices which can reduce the incidence of skin cancer.
(c) Implementation strategies
In order to ensure that all participants at NSWPSSA events are afforded the best possible protection from skin damage caused by the sun, the following implementation strategies are recommended
(i) The NSWPSSA and affiliated associations should ensure that team uniforms are suitable for the locations to be visited and that hats are included.
(ii) The NSWPSSA and affiliated associations where possible, should schedule matches outside the identified high risk times.
(iii) The NSWPSSA and affiliated associations where possible, should ensure that adequate shade areas are provided at competition venues.
(iv) The NSWPSSA and affiliated associations should ensure that team officials provide modelling behaviours which are appropriate for protection from the sun.
(v) The NSWPSSA and affiliated associations should ensure that team officials encourage personal protection measures for students at all times, including:
Encouraging the wearing of hats when in the sun
Encouraging the use of a +30 (or above) broad spectrum and water resistant sunscreen
Encouraging the use of available shade areas whenever possible
The above are protective measures which the NSWPSSA encourages all participants to embrace, so as to ensure that appropriate precautions are taken when exposed to the sun.
(d) Heat stress
Heat stress can also affect sporting performance. It is recommended that the NSWPSSA and affiliated associations ensure that their team officials are familiar with Sports Medicine Australia's Heat Stress and Exercise Guidelines.