Overview

The Sunbeds (Regulation) Act 2010 is a UK law designed to protect children and young people from the harmful effects of sunbed use. It restricts access to sunbeds for under-18s and empowers local authorities to enforce these regulations.

Description

This Act primarily focuses on preventing the use of sunbeds by individuals under the age of 18. It mandates that sunbed businesses must ensure no one under 18 uses their sunbeds, receives offers to use them, or is present in designated restricted areas (enclosed sunbed spaces or the entire room containing a sunbed). Businesses failing to comply face fines up to £20,000. A key exception is medical use under a registered practitioner's supervision in a healthcare setting.

The Act also grants power to create further regulations restricting sunbed use, sale, and hire for under-18s. It allows for mandatory health information provision to users and mandates the availability and, where reasonably practicable, the use of protective eyewear. Local authorities are responsible for enforcement, with powers of entry and inspection detailed in a schedule. Obstructing officers or providing false information are also offences. The Act applies to England and Wales.

Government Spending

The Act states that any increase in government spending resulting from its implementation will be funded from money provided by Parliament. Specific figures are not provided in the Act itself.

Groups Affected

• Sunbed Businesses: Face significant regulatory burdens, including fines for non-compliance with age restrictions and other regulations. They must also provide safety information and protective eyewear.
• Children and Young People (Under 18): Directly protected from sunbed use by the law, safeguarding their health.
• Local Authorities: Responsible for enforcing the Act, requiring resources for inspections and potential legal action.
• Medical Professionals: The Act provides an exemption for medical treatments carried out under their supervision in registered healthcare settings.

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