Sunbeds & Tanning
The Sunbeds (Regulation) Act 2010 came into force on 8 April 2011 to prevent under 18s from using tanning salons. You can download the Department of Health guidance on meeting your legal requirements here.
Operators will have to make sure their salons are adequately supervised to prevent children from using their sun beds. There have been a number of cases throughout the country where children have used unmanned coin operating salons and suffered severe burns. Studies have shown that using sunbeds for the first time before the age of 35 increases the risk of developing melanoma by 75 per cent.
Salons should provide suitable eye protection and ensure (as far as is reasonably possible) that this protection is worn. Salons should also display clear and accurate health information and ensure that this is explained to users.
Businesses such as leisure centres and gyms will also need to make sure that sun beds are positioned in a restricted zone, to prevent access by under 18s. For example, if a sun bed is accessible through a changing room then the room would have to be separated so access to the sun bed is restricted.
To help you, we have produced a safe method sheet as part of a free safety toolkit for businesses to complete. This safe method sheet offers best practice guidance but importantly will help you comply with the legislation.
Training
You must train your staff on all aspects of running the salon, including how to check the age of your customers and the type of ID you accept. You should keep records of any training that you have provided for your staff and repeat training regularly so standards are kept high. Remember new staff need full training and supervision.
Presentations for the owners and managers of Sunbed Salons to help them with their legal requirements are available below for you to use as part of your training. If you need any further help please contact us.
Training resources
Last Modified: 27/02/2023
Back to top