CANCER experts say covering up is sun-safe but the city's mayor-elect is unsure about the new "long pants only" rule for outdoor council workers.

The Cairns Post yesterday revealed how shorts would be banned from January 1 next year, prompting a huge response from readers.

"I am surprised the decision was made that the only way to deal with the workers’ safety is long pants," mayor-elect Val Schier said.

"The reality is, yes we need to look after people’s health, but long pants is not the only way."

The long pants rule for outdoor workers will be phased in from July. The workers are already required to wear long-sleeve shirts.

Ms Schier said the workers should have access to sunscreen in their vehicles and the council depots but did not say she would try to overturn the long-pants ruling.

But Cancer Council Queensland prevention and early detection co-ordinator Susan Ferris-Day said sunscreen should only be considered an option if sun exposure could not be avoided, or the body covered up with protective clothing.

"Clothing is a key element in sun protection when people work outdoors," Ms Ferris-Day said.

"Sunscreen needs to be used with other forms of protection."

She said one in two Queenslanders was affected by skin cancer, with outdoor workers at greater risk and the uniforms decision had been made after discussions with the Queensland Government and local government authorities.

The Cairns Post was inundated with text messages, both in support for, and against the new uniform rule.

Australian Workers’ Union district secretary Ted Brischke said the union would continue to work with the council to ensure the best workplace health and safety for the outdoor staff.

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