TRADING STANDARDS CHECKS ON SUNBED SALONS

Carmarthenshire County Council’s Trading Standards team are reminding sunbed operators of their responsibilities ahead of the summer season, when people are more tempted to top up their tans.

They are carrying our unannounced inspections and testing as part of their remit to ensure sunbed salons and beauty spas are operating legally and safely.

One of their checks is to test the level of UV radiation emitted by each bed, which must fall within the levels permitted by European legislation. So far, around 94 per cent of beds tested pass, compared to less than half – 47 per cent – in 2013.

“Whilst this is encouraging, we want to see a 100 per cent pass rate,” said Cllr Jim Jones, Executive Board Member for Public Protection.

“Our unannounced inspections help to ensure that all sunbed operators take their responsibility to supply a ‘safe’ product seriously.

“Of course, as always – with increasing evidence that the use of sunbeds increases the risk of skin cancer – we would prefer that people avoid exposure to UV rays altogether.”

Appropriate action is taken where operators are found to be providing sunbeds that exceed the UV levels permitted by law.

Operators are also reminded of their responsibilities under the Sunbeds (Regulation) Act 2010 (Wales) Regulations 2011, this includes prohibiting the use of their sun beds by people aged under 18.

Unmanned salons are now banned, and operators must supervise the use of their sunbeds and provide advice to clients regarding their skin type.

They must also display statutory notices and information leaflets.

Roger Edmunds, Trading Standards manager, said: “Although the responsibility lies with the sunbed operator, anyone who insists on using a sunbed should be well aware not only of the associated health risks, but also what they should be looking for to ensure the bed they are using is safe.

“Don’t be afraid to check the tubes – they should the permitted 0.3 type. If you have any concerns whatsoever, please report them to us.”

• Any trader offering the commercial use of a sunbed that has not already done so, should register as an operator. Email tradingstandards@carmarthenshire.gov.uk or call 01267 234567. Further information for businesses can be found here: http://www.carmarthenshire.gov.wales/home/business/licensing-permits/sunbeds