Wednesday, April 30, 2014
Grey Bruce Health Unit
New Law Protects Youth from Skin Cancer
Starting May 1, new regulations come into effect to protect young people from skin cancer. Youth under 18 years of age will no longer be allowed to use tanning beds in Ontario. Youth are especially vulnerable to the harmful effects of ultra violet (UV) radiation. Tanning bed use increases the risk of skin cancer; the risk is 75% higher if tanning bed use begins before the age of 35 years.
There are approximately 26 premises that have tanning beds in Grey Bruce. Persons offering tanning services must provide written notice of their location and business contact information to the Medical Officer of Health.
The new legislation:
- Prohibits the sale, advertising and marketing of tanning services to those under 18 years of age;
- Requires tanning bed operators to post signs stating the ban on minors and the health risks of tanning bed use;
- Requires tanning bed operators request identification from anyone who appears under 25 years old;
- Requires protective eyewear be provided to all individuals using tanning beds;
- Sets fines for tanning bed owners/operators who fail to comply; and
- Authorizes inspectors to inspect and enforce these requirements.
Bill 30, Skin Cancer Prevention Act (Tanning Beds), is available at www.ontla.on.ca/web/bills/bills_detail.do?locale=en&Intranet=&BillID=2748.
Media Contact:
Karen Sweiger
Public Health Manager
Grey Bruce Health Unit
519-376-9420 or 1-800-263-3456 ext 1230
K.Sweiger@publichealthgreybruce.on.ca
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