12 Jan Canopies and Walkways Provide Optimum Protection
Whilst we have an abundance of rain, wind and snow here in the UK, when the sun does come out the majority of us are out there enjoying it. With spring and summer now in plain sight however, talk turns to the disadvantages associated with those long, sunny days.
UVA and UVB rays are two disadvantages that always go hand in hand with a summer’s day and preventing their dangerous effects is important. As a primary or secondary school, you have a responsibility to educate and protect your pupils from UVA and UVB, so where do you start?
About UVA and UVB rays
UVA and UVB rays are often referred to in the same breath, in fact ultraviolet A are long wave rays, whilst ultraviolet B are short wave rays. Each presents dangers to individuals of all ages without the right protection.
Ultraviolet radiation is a part of the light spectrum that reaches the earth from the sun. Depending on the wavelengths in which these rays hit the earth they are classed as UVA, UVB and UVC. UVC rays pose no threat as these are instantly absorbed into the o-zone layer so never reach the earth.
Why are UVA and UVB rays so dangerous?
Whilst both types of ultraviolet radiation are dangerous, due to their longer wavelength, UVA rays can penetrate deeper into the skin than UVB. With continuous exposure and no protection, both rays have the availability to transform normal skin cells into tumour cells.
What can I do to limit exposure?
There are a number of steps that can be taken to protect both yourself and your pupils from exposure to dangerous UVA and UVB rays. Education is the key when encouraging pupils and parents to wage their own fight against these rays so share teachings on sunscreen protection.
For effective UVA and UVB protection, it is recommended that you use sunscreen with an SPF of 15 or more. There are also sunscreen products that provide a combination of UVA-protective ingredients to deliver dual protection.
What other steps can be taken in the school environment?
Providing shaded areas on the playground will also help to promote a positive and protective environment. In addition to grabbing shade under trees and playground furniture, sun canopies offer specialist protection as well as purpose.
As the UK’s leading manufacturer of playground shelters, canopies and walkways, the Miko Engineering team have a number of freestanding sun canopies and sail canopies available for installation. These canopies provide optimum protection from harmful UVA and UVB rays.
