Anses links UV exposure to skin cancer

The National Agency for Food, Environmental and Occupational Health Safety (Anses) announced on Thursday, October 15, 2026, that it has found a proven link between occupational exposure to ultraviolet (UV) rays and the development of skin cancer. This conclusion comes after a detailed analysis of workplace conditions and health outcomes among workers exposed to UV radiation.

Proposed measures to address UV risks

Anses is recommending the creation of a professional disease table that would officially recognize UV-related skin cancers as occupational illnesses. The agency also suggests improving early detection of such conditions through enhanced occupational medicine practices, aiming to identify and treat affected workers sooner.

OPPBTP works on UV prevention

Mohamed Trabelsi, an expert handling the "Heatwave and High Temperature" file at the technical direction of the OPPBTP, responded to Anses' findings. He emphasized the importance of the agency's opinion and highlighted the ongoing efforts by the OPPBTP to prevent UV risks in the workplace.

Focus on occupational health and safety

The OPPBTP, which oversees occupational health and safety in the construction sector, is working on measures to protect workers from UV exposure. These include implementing protective equipment, modifying work schedules to avoid peak sun hours, and raising awareness about the dangers of prolonged UV exposure in outdoor jobs.