Our industry is governed by the Food and Drug Administration’s Code of Federal Regulations 21CFR 1040.20. In place since 1979, it has been updated only a few times and is currently under review for more revision. Typically, research is cited as part of the reason for these changes. The Journal of the American Medical Association recently published a study that should serve as an “eye-opener” for our industry, specifically as it relates to certified salon operator training.
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Tanning Salon Compliance Rates in States with Legislation to Protect Youth Access to UV Tanning. Researchers started with examining states that currently had indoor tanning regulations with the question: “How compliant are the tanning salons in 42 states and the District of Columbia with current indoor tanning legislation?”
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They had individuals actually pass themselves off as minors and call tanning facilities, inquiring whether they would be allowed to use UV tanning services there. Each of these states have laws that restrict or ban tanning by minors. What did they find? Well, according to the survey, 159 tanning salons out of 427 were out of compliance with state legislation in 42 states and the District of Columbia. So, under 50 percent were non-compliant. They also found that “statistically significant decreases in compliance were found for rural, independently owned, and southern U.S. tanning salons.” A eye-opener if you own an independent, southern, rural salon! The research did not indicate what if any efforts should be made at restricting youth access to UV exposure at ballparks, pools, tennis courts, soccer fields, lakes and beaches and the myriad of other locations where minors can get scorched by natural sunlight. Hypocrisy, for sure.
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What was the researchers’ conclusion? “Tanning salon compliance with state laws restricting access to minors is unsatisfactory, and monitoring and enforcement efforts are needed to ensure compliance with these laws that are intended to minimize the harmful effects of UV tanning in minors.” So, to their point, more monitoring and enforcement is needed to ensure compliance with existing laws restricting indoor tanning. Well, of course, there would have to be funding for such programs. Where would the money for this monitoring and enforcement come from? Certainly, tanning facilities could be taxed to pay for such regulation. Not good.
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An affordable and accessible program is already in place to help salon operators correct this issue. Sun is Life® Training and Certification is available 24/7 to put you and your staff in compliance with state and federal regulations. IST Magazine has been preaching about the need for education at the salon level, and now offers to train your entire staff (up to ten students) for as little as $99! That’s right, under $10 per employee to “get it right from the start.” So, what are you waiting for? Go to sunislife.com and register today, or email joe@istmagazine.com for more information.
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Sun is Life® Training and Certification is available 24/7 to put your salon in compliance with state and federal regulations.
