Assessment of ultraviolet radiation exposure amongst military outdoor workers: a case study of military outdoor workers at Lohatla, Northern Cape

Abstract

Background: Ultraviolet radiation (UVR) exposure poses significant health risks, particularly for individuals engaged in outdoor occupations. Military personnel, due to their extensive time spent in outdoor environments, are particularly vulnerable to the adverse effects of UVR, which can lead to skin damage, eye disorders, and increased risk of skin cancer. This study focuses on assessing UVR exposure among military outdoor workers stationed in Lohatla, Northern Cape, an area characterised by its intense solar radiation. By measuring ambient UVR levels and correlating them with self-reported health outcomes, the research aims to enhance the understanding of the exposure risks faced by military personnel. The findings are intended to inform the development of effective protective strategies and health guidelines tailored to this unique occupational group. Methodology: A cross-sectional study was conducted among military outdoor workers in Lohatla, Northern Cape, over three months from December 2024 to February 2025. The study involved the deployment of UV dosimeters to measure ambient UVR levels at designated outdoor work sites. Dosimeters were strategically placed in unobstructed areas to ensure accurate readings representative of daily UVR exposure. Data was collected on two separate occasions for each participant, specifically on the first and last days of each bi-weekly monitoring period. In addition to UVR measurement, participants completed structured questionnaires detailing demographic information, duration of outdoor work, sun protection practices, and any reported health issues related to UV exposure. The collected data were analysed to determine the correlation between measured UVR exposure and reported health outcomes, providing insights into the risks associated with outdoor military duties. Ethical approval was obtained from relevant authorities, and informed consent was secured from all participants before data collection. Results: The questionnaire survey was completed by 161 military outdoor workers, comprising males (n=94, 58.39%) and females (n=67, 41.62%). The age category with the most study population was 19 to 25 (n=51, 31.68%). The analysis revealed several significant relationships between sun protection behaviours and health outcomes. A strong positive correlation exists between wearing clothes that cover the arms and legs and avoiding sun exposure between 12 and 3 PM (r = 0.530, p < 0.001) and sunscreen use (r = 0.475, p < 0.001), indicating that individuals who adopt protective clothing are also more likely to engage in additional sun protection behaviours. A moderate positive correlation was found between working around reflective surfaces and blurred vision (r = 0.217, p = 0.006), highlighting potential eye health risks. A moderate positive correlation was found between working around reflective surfaces and blurred vision (r = 0.217, p = 0.006), highlighting potential eye health risks. Additionally, sunscreen use showed a weak but significant correlation with reduced eye pain (r = 0.216, p = 0.006). In terms of health outcomes, sunscreen use is significantly associated with fewer brown spots (r = 0.426, p < 0.001) and a lower incidence of sunburn (r = 0.319, p < 0.001). Conclusion: The study highlights the significant link between occupational health risks faced by military outdoor workers and their sociodemographic characteristics. The results indicate that outdoor military workers in Lohatla face a high risk of skin cancer and other UV-related illnesses, influenced by environmental factors and personal behaviours and no direct relationship between physical activity, sociodemographic characteristics, and UV radiation exposure. Military institutions can enhance their personnel's long-term health and safety by tac