Sunbed safety

Think Before You Tan

Sunbed salons have to be compliant with certain health and safety laws but it is also vital that users take precautions when using them.

You must:

• Be over the age of 18
• Think about why you want to use a sunbed
• Consider your skin type
• Be careful about how long you use a sunbed, each time and over time

Health and safety visits

All sunbed businesses in St Helens were visited by our officers in 2016 with the aim of ensuring that they were compliant with the Health and Safety at Work etc. Act 1974 and Sunbed (Regulations) Act 2010, and not exceeding the UV Emissions Levels set by the European Standard BS EN 60335-2.27:2013.  

We were pleased that all of the businesses cooperated fully with the inspectors and all were found to be compliant with the law.

However, if you are considering using a sunbed please ensure you follow all appropriate restrictions and guidelines.

Sun safety

The message 'Think Before You Tan' is clear - and it doesn't just apply to sunbeds.

If you spend time in the sun, it is appropriate to take proper precautions such as wearing the right clothes, sun creams and hats and not spending too much time in direct sunlight.

Also, under the Health and Safety at Work etc Act 1974, employers have a duty to protect the health, safety and welfare of their employees. If you work outside for a prolonged period of time e.g. as a gardener, or your child attends a private nursery, assessments are required to determine what controls need to be in place to prevent sun over-exposure. These controls could include:

• the provision of hats
• ensuring the use of sun cream
• allowing regular short breaks with water to keep hydrated
• where practical, restricting work and outdoor play during the hotter parts of the day.

The links at the foot of this page have detailed information and advice for businesses and members of the public on the risks associated with the use of sunbeds and exposure to the sun, together with the simple controls you can take to safeguard your own and others' health.