Sun protection products are integral to skin cancer prevention by limiting the amount of ultraviolet radiation (UVR) reaching the skin and eyes. All five sun protective practices recommended by the Cancer Councils in Australia and New Zealand: Slip on sun protective clothing; Slop on sunscreen; Slap on a hat; Seek shade and Slide on sunglasses; relate to products which should meet the requirements of Australian Standards or Australian and New Zealand Standards. The relevant standards are:
Eye and face protection – Sunglasses and fashion spectacles AS/NZS 1067.1 (requirements) and 1067.2 (test methods) were published in 2016. In 2017, the ACCC adopted AS/NZS 1067.1:2016 as a mandatory safety standard for sunglasses in Australia, requiring category ratings and suitability for driving to be provided at point of sale. Standards for occupational eye protection incorporating UV protection are currently under review.
Knitted and woven shade fabrics AS 4174, published in 2018, includes a human protection rating marked as percentage (%) Ultraviolet Effectiveness (UVE)
Sun protective clothing –Evaluation and classification AS 4399, published in 2020, covers clothing and hats, and includes requirements for minimum body coverage. Compliant garments are reported with a Ultraviolet Protection Factor (UPF) rating.
Sunscreen products – Evaluation and Classification, AS/NZS 2604 was published in 2021. This standard defines the Sun Protection Factor (SPF) rating and requires broad-spectrum UVA/UVB protection.
People involved in sun protection should be aware of these standards and update any guidance materials that refer to these standards. Information and changes to the above standards will be presented.