New UV index reflects NZ conditions

A new UV index is being introduced to replace "burn time" so that people are properly informed of the risks of spending time in the sun.

Wendy Billingsley of the Cancer Society says burn time is misleading and often misused. Some people believe it is safe to stay out in the sun unprotected for just under the specified burn time and it does not take into account different skin types.

The new index, similar in appearance to the dial used by the Rural Fire Service, has been developed by the World Health Organisation but modified to reflect New Zealand conditions.

Ms Billingsley says that in summer New Zealand typically receives about 50 per cent more UV than similar latitudes in Europe. One of the main reasons is that the air is less polluted.

The UVI measures ultra-violet radiation levels from 1 to 11+. At level one and two, for example, the UV level is low. Only low-level protection is needed and people can safely stay outside.

UV levels of eight to 10 are very high and people are advised seek shade between 11am and 4pm and cover up.