UV PROTECTION THAT WORKS
As summer temperatures rise, Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) becomes a critical line of defense for safeguarding the health and safety of outdoor workers. While sunscreen often takes center stage in sun protection, it's far from the only solution. There are many effective ways to shield the body from thermal discomfort, heatstroke, and long-term harm. With skin cancer rates climbing and product claims becoming increasingly misleading, it's more important than ever to understand how ultraviolet (UV) radiation affects our bodies, and how the right fabrics can offer powerful, lasting protection. The right clothing doesn’t just help you stay cool now, it plays a vital role in preserving your health for the future.
Here’s what you might not know.
UV radiation: The invisible risk
Unlike temperature, UV radiation can’t be felt or seen, which is exactly why it’s so often underestimated. High levels of UV exposure are most common during summer months, typically between noon and 4 p.m., and can remain dangerous even on cloudy or cooler days.
There are three types of UV rays:
- UVA (320–400 nm): These rays penetrate deep into the skin and eyes. They’re the most prevalent and can cause short-term and long-term damage over time.
- UVB (280–320 nm): Less abundant but more intense, these rays are responsible for sunburn and contribute to skin cancer.
- UVC (100–280 nm): It's the most dangerous form of UV radiation, typically only encountered on earth while welding.
What makes clothing UV-protective?
While it may seem like any long-sleeved shirt offers protection, not all fabrics are created equal when it comes to UV defense. Clothing that truly protects against UV radiation is tested and certified to meet specific standards.One of the most common used standards is EN 13758-2, which measures the Ultraviolet Protection Factor (UPF) of a garment. Higher UPF means better protection against UV.
Several factors influence protective capacity:
- Fabric density: Tightly woven fabrics block more UV rays than loose weaves.
- Color: Dark or bright colors absorb more UV radiation than lighter shades.
- Fit: Loose-fitting improves a good air circulation and offers better protection than tight-fitting styles, which can stretch the fabric and reduce its density.
- Condition: Wear and tear, stretching, or thinning of fabric can all compromise protection levels over time.
- Water-soaked apparel: Water-soaked apparel compromises the UV-blocking capability of your clothing.
*Other test standards are UV STANDARD 801, AS/NZS 4399, AATCC TM 183
Not all UV claims are created equal
The term “UV-protective” can be misleading when not backed up by proper testing. Many garments marketed as “anti-UV” may not meet certified standards, and without clear labeling, it can be difficult to know what level of protection they offer.
When evaluating UV-protective clothing, look for:
- CE certification according to EN 13758-2
- Transparent product information, not just icons or marketing slogans
- Evidence of third-party verification, not just manufacturer claims
But just how much protection does a UPF rating actually provide?
Preserving Performance Through Care
To ensure that UV-protective clothing continues to offer reliable protection over time, proper maintenance is essential. However, garments should be regularly inspected for signs of wear, such as thinning, stretching, or visible damage. These factors may compromise the fabric’s integrity and reduce its protective function, indicating it may be time for replacement.
Knowledge as first layer of protection
UV protection is part of our everyday health and safety, especially as outdoor work, leisure, and climate conditions expose us to short and long-term risks. Understanding how UV radiation works and what makes clothing genuinely protective helps us make smarter, safer choices.
