Ultraviolet Protection Factor
Ultraviolet Protection Factor
About Upf 50+
UPF 50+ (Ultraviolet Protection Factor) is very different to SPF (Sun Protection Factor).
Over-exposure to solar ultraviolet radiation (UV radiation) can cause sunburn, skin damage and an increased risk of developing skin cancer. Clothing provides one of the most convenient forms of protection against UVR but not all garments offer sufficient sun protection.
The UPF rating indicates how effective a fabric is at blocking out solar ultraviolet radiation. This testing is performed according to Australian/New Zealand standard AS/NZS4399.
UPF ratings range from 15 to 50 with higher ratings indicating more effective blocking and therefore better protection for the wearer of a garment made from the fabric. Fabrics that test higher than UPF 50 are rated as UPF 50+.
The fabrics of Emthunzini hats block 97.5% of the suns ultraviolet rays and are tested by the Australian Radiation Protection Agency and comply with the UPF 50+ requirements.
UPF testing involves exposing a fabric to ultraviolet radiation (UVR) and measuring how much is transmitted through the sample. Different wavelengths of radiation in the UVR spectrum have different effects on human skin and this is taken into consideration when calculating the UPF rating.
Factors that contribute to the UPF rating of a fabric are:
- Composition of the yarns (cotton, polyester, etc)
- Tightness of the weave or knit (tighter improves the rating)
- Colour (darker colours are generally better)
- Stretch (more stretch lowers the rating)
- Moisture (many fabrics have lower ratings when wet)
- Condition (worn and faded garments may have reduced ratings)
- Finishing (some fabrics are treated with UV absorbing hemicals)
Ultraviolet (UV) radiation is the invisible killer that you can’t see or feel. UV radiation can be high even on cool and overcast days, so wear an Emthunzini hat and find your place in the shade.