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(a) |
INTRODUCTION |
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(i) |
It
is well known that Australia has the highest incidence of skin cancer in
the world. |
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(ii) |
Levels
of ultraviolet radiation are particularly high in many locations around
Australia. |
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(iii) |
Many
sporting events organised by the NSWPSSA and its member associations are
conducted outdoors and in locations which have been identified as high skin
cancer risk areas, particularly at certain times of the day. |
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(iv) |
It
is therefore incumbent on the NSWPSSA and its member associations to protect
students and staff to the greatest extent possible from the dangers of exposure
to the sun. |
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(b) |
AIMS
The aims of this policy are to promote |
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(i) |
An
awareness of the dangers of the exposure to the sun and the need for protective
measures. |
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(ii) |
The
need for positive attitudes and responsible behaviours toward skin protection. |
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(iii) |
Practices
which can reduce the incidence of skin cancer. |
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(c) |
IMPLEMENTATION
STRATEGIES
In order to ensure that all participants at NSWPSSA events are
afforded the best possible protection from skin damage caused by the sun,
the following implementation strategies are recommended |
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(i) |
The
NSWPSSA and affiliated associations should ensure that team uniforms are
suitable for the locations to be visited and that hats are included. |
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(ii) |
The
NSWPSSA and affiliated associations where possible, should schedule matches
outside the identified high risk times. |
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(iii) |
The
NSWPSSA and affiliated associations where possible, should ensure that adequate
shade areas are provided at competition venues. |
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(iv) |
The
NSWPSSA and affiliated associations should ensure that team officials provide
modelling behaviours which are appropriate for protection from the sun. |
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(v) |
The
NSWPSSA and affiliated associations should ensure that team officials
encourage personal protection measures for students at all times, including:
- Encouraging
the wearing of hats when in the sun
- Encouraging
the use of a +15 water based broad spectrum sunscreen
- Encouraging
the use of available shade areas whenever possible
The above
are protective measures which the NSWPSSA encourages all participants
to embrace, so as to ensure that appropriate precautions are taken when
exposed to the sun. |
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(d) |
HEAT
STRESS
Heat stress can also affect sporting performance. It is
recommended that the NSWPSSA and affiliated associations ensure that their
team officials are familiar with Sports Medicine Australia's Heat Stress
and Exercise Guidelines. |
