The Hidden Dangers of Car Windows
There are numerous obstacles on the road that can pose a threat to your safety, but the most insidious one may be the sun itself. The sun’s ultraviolet (UV) rays can cause irreparable damage to your skin, increasing the risk of skin cancer and premature aging. When you’re behind the wheel, it’s easy to get caught up in the task of driving and forget about the risks of UV radiation. However, the sun’s rays can penetrate the car window, putting you at risk of exposure. In fact, studies have shown that UV radiation can cause up to 95% of melanomas, the most aggressive form of skin cancer. So, what can you do to protect yourself from the sun’s harmful rays? It’s not just about slapping on some sunscreen, although that’s a good start. The key is to take steps to block out UV radiation, which can be achieved through the use of window tinting.
Types of Glass and Their UV Blocking Properties
There are different types of glass used in car windows, each with its own UV blocking properties. Laminated glass, used for windscreens, blocks about 98% of UVA radiation, while tempered glass, used for side and rear windows, allows the transmission of substantially more UVA radiation. However, clear or tinted films can significantly reduce the amount of total UV radiation penetrating the tempered glass. Tinting is recommended for work vehicles where practicable, and the general public should also consider the sun-protective benefits of window tinting for their vehicle.
Legal Tint Levels in Australia
In Australia, the legal tint level for side windows is 35% visible light transmittance (VLT). This means that at least 35% of light must be able to pass through the window. However, there are some restrictions on tinting, with the windshield not allowed to be tinted and a “sun strip” above the small back arrow permitted.
Choosing the Right Tint
So, does darker mean better for sun protection? Not exactly. Certain tints can be obtained that block UV light but remain at a legal level. When getting a tint put on your windows, opt for the ceramic option and do research into brands that have had real-world testing.
The Benefits of Window Tinting
Window tinting can provide sun protection benefits while you’re in your vehicle. Some tints appear clear to the human eye but strongly absorb UVR. By choosing the right tint, you can reduce the amount of UV radiation penetrating the car window, minimizing the risk of skin damage. Additional Sun Protection Tips
In addition to window tinting, there are other ways to protect yourself from the sun’s harmful rays. Cancer Council recommends that people who are spending long periods of time in a vehicle use sun protection such as a long-sleeve shirt and pants, sunglasses, and sunscreen that is broad-spectrum, water-resistant, and SPF 50 or 50+. This also ensures that you are protected when you leave the car. Conclusion
When in the car and the UV Index is three or above, the first step in being sun safe is to ensure that windows (tinted or untinted) are wound up to avoid direct sun on the skin. Regardless of what activity you’re doing, we encourage Australians to make sun protection a daily part of their routine. When the UV level is three or above, we recommend Australians use all five forms of sun protection: Slip on protective clothing, Slop on broad-spectrum, water-resistant SPF 50 or SPF 50+ sunscreen, Slap on a broad-brimmed hat, Seek shade, and Slide on sunglasses.
| Tip | Description |
|---|---|
| Slip on protective clothing | Long-sleeve shirts and pants can provide protection from the sun’s UV rays. |
| Slop on broad-spectrum sunscreen | SPF 50 or 50+ sunscreen provides broad-spectrum protection against UV rays. |
| Slap on a broad-brimmed hat | A hat with a wide brim can protect your face, neck, and ears from the sun’s UV rays. |
| Seek shade | Shade can provide protection from the sun’s UV rays. |
| Slide on sunglasses | Sunglasses can provide protection for your eyes from the sun’s UV rays. |
Protecting Yourself from the Sun’s Harmful Rays
There are many ways to protect yourself from the sun’s harmful rays, and it’s not just about slapping on some sunscreen. The key is to take steps to block out UV radiation, which can be achieved through the use of window tinting, fabric side window covers, and other sun-protective measures.
Examples of Sun-Protective Measures
• Window tinting: This can significantly reduce the amount of total UV radiation penetrating the car window. • Fabric side window covers: These can provide shade and UV protection when the windows are closed. • Sun-protective window films: These can provide additional UV protection beyond what the glass provides. • Sun-hoods: These can provide shade and UV protection for the driver and passengers.
Importance of Sun Protection
Sun protection is essential for preventing skin cancer and premature aging. By taking steps to block out UV radiation, you can reduce the risk of skin damage and skin cancer. It’s not just about personal protection; it’s also about protecting others, such as children and the elderly, who may be more susceptible to skin damage.
Conclusion
In conclusion, driving safely in the sun requires taking steps to block out UV radiation, which can be achieved through the use of window tinting, fabric side window covers, and other sun-protective measures. By choosing the right tint and taking other sun-protective measures, you can reduce the risk of skin damage and skin cancer. It’s essential to make sun protection a daily part of your routine, especially when the UV level is three or above.
“I strongly recommend that Australians make sun protection a daily part of their routine. It’s not just about personal protection; it’s also about protecting others, such as children and the elderly, who may be more susceptible to skin damage.