HC Deb 19 April 2004 vol 420 c293W
Lady Hermon

To ask the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland what steps he has taken to ensure that sunbed users in Northern Ireland are made aware of the health risks arising from sunbed use; and if he will make a statement. [164660]

Mr. Gardiner

The Health and Safety Executive in Great Britain has published guidance for operators and customers of solaria. Included in that advice is that people under 16 years old should not use sunbeds and that a limit of 20 sessions per year should be observed. This advice was developed after consultation with leading experts, is equally applicable to the Northern Ireland situation and is referred to by Health and Safety Inspectors here as illustrating good practice. The guidance "Controlling Health Risks from the use of UV Tanning Equipment" can be accessed via HSENF's website.

In addition, UK Health Departments (including DHSSPSNI) are currently funding a SunSmart Campaign run by Cancer Research UK. Campaign leaflets and posters were sent to all GP surgeries, secondary schools and health promotion departments.

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