Workplaces

Although most Australians will enjoy a long and healthy life, it's important to understand that cancer can affect you and your employees. One third of all cancer deaths in Australia can be prevented.

The good news is, there are things workplaces can do to help employees reduce their risk.

• Encourage the use of shade at your workplace – use a combination of natural, built and temporary shade for your employees to use on breaks and when outdoors.
• Protect your workers from ultraviolet radiation by providing long sleeved clothing, sun protective hats, sunglasses and sunscreen.
• Preferably ensure all areas of your workplace are smokefree. If a designated outdoor smoking area is provided, ensure that it's well away from building entrances, walkways and areas where staff are required to work.
• Encourage people to ride or walk to work and to use the stairs.
• Provide bike sheds and showers.
• Have walking meetings where possible. Consider walking to meetings that are a short distance away.
• Include healthy options when catering.
• At social events and functions, make sure water or juices are readily available and alcohol is served in moderation.
• Limit the number of vending machines.
• Organise workplace events that encourage physical activity.

SunSmart in your workplace

SunSmart offers workplace education and will help you develop and implement workplace sun protection programs (including policy and compliance strategies).

Visit the SunSmart website for more information.

Quit smoking in your workplace

Quit provides support and services for workplaces, including help to develop and update smokefree policies and quit courses to help staff stop smoking.