The national Australian Radiation Protection and Nuclear Safety Agency (ARPANSA) has begun endorsing swing tags for beach umbrellas and cabanas to encourage people to protect themselves against skin cancer.
Assistant Director of Ultraviolet Radiation Services at ARPANSA, Lydia Tjong said the new Ultraviolet Effectiveness (UVE) 95+% swing tags would make it easier for consumers to find effective products such as umbrellas, tents, cabanas, shade sails and awnings.
“Popping up a beach cabana when the ultraviolet (UV) radiation index creeps above three is a popular way to protect ourselves and loved ones from the sun,” Ms Tjong said.
“But – just like the clothes we wear – not all shade fabrics are created equal when it comes to UV protection,” she said.
“With so many shade fabrics available in different materials, colours and UVE ratings, it can be confusing for consumers.
“Just like our Ultraviolet Protection Factor (UPF) clothing swing tags, ARPANSA’s shadecloth tags aim to help people choose products that offer the highest protective rating against Australia’s harsh sun.”
Ms Tjong said Australia’s high rates of skin cancer and UV-related skin and eye damage meant that clear and simple UVE ratings were more important than ever.
She said the 95+% swing tag rating was the highest protection category available for shadecloth fabrics.
“As the Australian Government’s primary authority on radiation protection, we believe this is the minimum protection that all shade fabrics should offer consumers,” the Ultraviolet Radiation Services Assistant Director said.
“The swing tags can only be used by manufacturers under licence for products that have been tested and approved by ARPANSA’s NATA-accredited laboratories, and which meet the relevant Australian Standard,” Ms Tjong said.
Further information on the Agency’s shadecloth product testing can be accessed at this PS News link.
