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What is a Shade Audit?
"a process for developing a strategic plan for
solar protection of outdoor locations by
assessing UV risk and exploring solutions"
The Shade Audit is a planning process that allows organisations with outdoor facilities to determine the solar risk of outdoor activities and to ensure they are providing adequate and effective shade. It is recommended by the Australian Cancer Council as the best way to plan outdoor spaces so as to minimise the risk of over exposure to UV radiation.
The process assesses the quality and location of existing shade, compares that with the usage patterns at the site (the timing, duration and location of outdoor activities) to determine the risk of over exposure and proposes ways in which the risk can be reduced.
Naturally, UV radiation levels and climatic conditions vary widely according to location and season. By considering the specific needs of individual sites, the Shade Audit allows organizations to ensure that outdoor spaces at their sites are appropriately and cost effectively protected from UV radiation by:
Changing the way people use the site by rescheduling and/or relocating activities
Making better use of existing shade
Creating effective shade with high protection levels
Locating shade structures and trees where they are really needed
Developing supportive environments that suit local climatic and UV protection requirements
Importantly, as well as identifying possible shortcomings in existing or proposed facilities, the Shade Audit assists in the development of practical and economical solutions to the provision of shade and the creation of safer outdoor spaces.
What will the Shade Audit provide
The Shade Audit provides organisations with:
An independent UV risk assessment for each site
Shade Audit report detailing existing shade, risk activities and suggested solutions and
recommendations
Professional document to be used to manage future shade improvements
What is involved in a Shade Audit
The Shade Audit process will involve:
Conducting a site inspection and interview with management
Establishing the usage patterns of activity areas
Assessing the quantity and usability of existing shade
Provide recommendations to address Shade Audit findings
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