Breakfast Meeting – February 11, 2025

Protecting Outdoor Workers:
The Importance of Skin Safety

R. Fletcher Rich

R. Fletcher Rich, CEO of R&R Lotion, is a seasoned expert in occupational skin health, uniquely qualified to speak on skin cancer awareness and other skin safety topics.  With R&R Lotion’s 40-year legacy and Fletcher’s personal journey from working in the warehouse at age 13 to roles in manufacturing, quality, product development, and operations, he brings a 360-degree view of skin health in industrial settings.  Fletcher has attended over 300 safety seminars and has been a featured speaker at more than 100, sharing insights on sun protection, insect prevention, poison ivy, and dermatitis.  His ongoing education includes yearly attendance at skin care seminars and membership in the Society of Cosmetic Chemists. Collaborations with institutions like the Arizona Cancer Center and international exposure from events like the Sun Protection Conference in London further solidify his expertise.  An active member of safety organizations such as ASSP, VPPPA, NSC, and AIHA, Fletcher’s comprehensive approach to skin health makes him a well-rounded and trusted expert in the field.

In this presentation, Fletcher will talk about the various types of skin-related hazards that outdoor workers face, such as UV radiation, vector-borne diseases, dermatitis, and poison ivy rash.  He will also cover Preventive Steps for Reducing Skin-Related Hazards.  The presentation will cover specific steps that outdoor workers can take to mitigate the risks associated with the hazards, such as wearing appropriate clothing and personal protective equipment (PPE), using sunscreen and insect repellent, practicing good hand hygiene, and avoiding contact with irritants and allergens.  Finally, Fletcher will highlight the role of employers and the requirements set by the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) in ensuring that workers are protected from these hazards, indicating that there will be a discussion on compliance and perhaps the responsibilities of employers in maintaining worker safety in outdoor environments.