Predictors of risky sun exposure behaviors among Operating Engineers

Background and Objective: Outdoor workers are particularly at risk for skin cancer which has been rising steadily. Working with Michigan Operating Engineers Local 324, the objective of this study was to determine the predictors of sun burns, blistering, use of sunscreen, and interest in sun protection services among Operating Engineers (heavy equipment operators).

Methods: This was a cross-sectional correlational design conducted in 2008 related to health behaviors of 498 Operating Engineers. Linear and logistic regression analyses were used to determine if health behavior, psychological, and demographic factors predict risky sun exposure behaviors (sun burns, blistering, use of sunscreen, and interest in sun protection services).

Results: Almost half reported 2 or more sunburns/summer and the median times blistering was 2 with a range of 0-100. About one-third never used sun block while just over one-third rarely used sun block. Almost one-quarter were interested in sun protection guidance. Multivariate analyses showed that perceptions of skin type, alcohol problems, fruit intake, BMI, sleep quality, age, sex, and race were significantly associated with at least one of the outcome variables (p<.05).

Conclusion: Operating Engineers are at high risk for skin cancer due to high rates of exposure to UV light and low rates of sun block. Subgroups of Operating Engineers are particularly at risk for sun damage. Interventions are needed to decrease sun exposure among Operating Engineers.