The Rann Government’s crackdown on irresponsible solarium practices will come into force on Friday next week (14 March 2008), following today’s tabling in Parliament of tough new regulations.

Minister for Environment and Conservation Gail Gago says “fines of up to $50,000 or five years jail will apply under the strict new laws designed to help save lives.”

“Our Government is concerned that lives are being put at risk in South Australia by irresponsible practices surrounding the use of solariums.

“I wasn’t satisfied that there was adequate compliance with the national voluntary code of conduct, so we’ve not only enshrined those requirements in law – but gone further,” says the Minister.

Changes include:

• Raising the minimum age for solarium clients from 15 to 18;
• Displaying health warnings that solariums can cause skin cancer;
• Prohibiting the use of solariums for people with fair skin;
• Sun tanning operators must have received training, including skin type assessments;
• Clients must be supervised by a trained operator;
• Informed consent sought from all clients;
• Restrictions on the frequency and duration of tanning sessions.

“These new laws are about ensuring that we have a responsible well informed industry, that staff are properly trained and their clients receive correct health care advice and are fully aware of the dangers of exposing their skin to high UV levels.

“We’re working with TAFE and the solarium industry to develop appropriate training courses for operators to be implemented along with a licensing system over the next 12 months.

“The Environment Protection Authority (EPA) is also writing to operators to remind them of their new responsibilities and provide a consent form showing what solarium users are required to complete.

“EPA inspectors will carry out inspections, monitor compliance and follow up enforcement action.  The EPA will also administer and assess licence applicants.

“The new regulations will be reviewed after 12 months to ensure they comply with a proposed national standard.

“The solarium industry in SA has grown rapidly in recent years with 150 salons now operating in the state, as well tanning beds in some fitness centres and beauty salons,” says the Minister.

Skin cancer is one of the most common cancers for people aged between 15 and 44 and sun tanning units use high levels of UV radiation, often up to five times the strength of the midday sun.

International studies have also shown that the risk of developing melanoma increases by about 75% if a solarium user is under the age of 35.

Melanoma kills at least 79 South Australian each year (2005 figures).