02/03/2015

New Sunbed Laws Come Into Force

New legislation to govern the use of sunbeds comes into effect from today (2 March).

The laws will include a ban on promotions encouraging the use of sunbeds, such as 'happy hours', 'unlimited use' and loyalty cards, while sunbed operators will also have to ensure they inform their customers on the health risks of sunbeds before they use them.

In addition, the new regulations will see all sunbed operators having to register with the HSE and pay an annual fee of €120, while sunbed use on all premises must be supervise. The use of protective eyewear is also compulsory.

The reforms are part of the second phase of the Public Health (Sunbeds) Act which comes into law today. In 2014, the first phase of the Act made it illegal to allow a person under the age of 18 to use a sunbed.

The legislation has been welcomed by the Irish Cancer Society.

Kathleen O'Meara, the charity's Head of Advocacy and Communications, said: "We campaigned for the last several years for this legislation and we are delighted that it is coming into force.

"A body of evidence has been built up that shows the clear link between sunbeds and skin cancer. We now know that the risk of melanoma, the deadliest form of skin cancer, from any sunbed use is 20% and this increases to 59% if the exposure was while the person was under 35 years of age."

(JP/MH)

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