Rationale

The health of club members is of primary concern for the Blue Jays Netball Club. Australia has the highest rate of skin cancer in the world, with two out of three people experiencing some form of skin cancer during their lifetime.

Who is affected by the Policy

This policy applies to all members, administrators, officials, coaches, players, visitors and volunteers of Blue Jays Netball Club.

Timing

This policy is effective from 1 January 2019.

Policy

It is acknowledged that skin cancer is a preventable disease and that a preventative strategy including the following actions will be implemented by Blue Jays Netball Club.

Schedules

Where possible outdoor events and training times will be scheduled outside the hours of 11am and 3pm.

Shortening the length of the match or extending the time allowed for ¼. ½ and ¾ breaks may be appropriate (in consultation with JNA).

Player rest and rotation

In conditions of high-risk participants should be provided opportunities to rest by player interchange or substitution.

Shade

The Club will maximise the use of natural shade provided from buildings, trees and other structures. Individuals will be encouraged to bring their own shad structures to club events.

Clothing

The Club will promote participants and officials to use sun protective clothing. This will include shirts or jackets which have longer sleeves and a collar. Wide brimmed hats or legionnaires hats whenever practical. Appropriate sunglasses to protect the eyes.

Sunscreen

SPF15+ or higher sunscreen will be promoted by the Club. Prior to training or playing in peak UV periods, players and participants will be encouraged to apply sunscreen to exposed body parts.

Education

Event programs, newsletters and public announcements will be used to raise and maintain public awareness to prompt sun protective behaviour.

Policy review

The Sun Protective policy will be reviewed annually to ensure that the document remains current and practical to the Club’s requirements.