Do long sleeve work shirts provide sun protection?

Long sleeve work shirts can provide sun protection, especially if they are made from fabrics that are designed to block or absorb UV radiation.

Exposure to the sun’s harmful UV radiation can lead to skin damage, such as sunburn, premature aging, and an increased risk of skin cancer. This is particularly relevant for workers who spend extended periods of time outdoors, such as in construction, agriculture, or landscaping.

Many work shirts are made from fabrics that have a UPF (Ultraviolet Protection Factor) rating, which indicates how much UV radiation the fabric can absorb or block. The higher the UPF rating, the greater the level of protection provided. Some fabrics that are commonly used in work shirts with a high UPF rating include polyester, nylon, and cotton blends.

In addition to fabric, other features of work shirts can contribute to sun protection. For example, shirts with collars can provide additional coverage to the neck area, while shirts with tight weave patterns or darker colors may absorb more UV radiation than lighter colors or looser weaves.

However, it’s important to note that while long sleeve work shirts can provide some sun protection, they should not be relied upon as the only method of protection. Workers should also use other forms of sun protection, such as wearing a hat or sunglasses, using sunscreen, and seeking shade whenever possible. It’s also important to take breaks and avoid working during the hottest part of the day to reduce exposure to UV radiation.