Edition 49, September 2007

Melanoma patient's case prompts sunbed regulation

Recent publicity surrounding the death of a young woman from melanoma has resulted in calls for the solarium industry to be more tightly regulated.

Clare Oliver, 26, developed melanoma after taking advantage of a package offer at a solarium.

Currently, the solarium industry is governed by a voluntary code based on Australian Standard AS 2635:2002 Solaria for cosmetic purposes. The Victorian Government is moving towards making this code of conduct mandatory by the end of 2007. Compulsory health warnings will need to be given to clients, and it will be illegal to provide solarium services to people under 16, with parental permission being required for those aged 16 or 17.

The Western Australian Health Department conducted a survey of the solarium industry in 2006 which indicated a demonstrated need to increase the awareness of AS 2635:2002.

The Australian Government has put its support behind national regulation of the solarium industry, with Health Minister Tony Abbott calling on the states to work together towards consistent standards.

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