Sunbeds banned for Kiwis aged under 18

June 30, 2016

To crack down on improper use, licencing and a mandatory standard of practice are being proposed.

Parliament has passed a bill that makes sunbeds R18 and changes the way serious infectious diseases are managed.

Health Minister Jonathan Coleman says there's strong evidence that people who use sunbeds increase their risk of melanoma and other skin cancers.

"There is also evidence that children and adolescents are more sensitive to ultra violet," he said after the bill had passed its final stage.

"This legislation seeks to protect this vulnerable group while balancing the rights of informed adults."

The Ministry of Health is looking into whether the licensing of premises and operators, and the introductions of mandatory standards, are appropriate.

The bill puts in place graduated measures for managing infectious diseases.

It adds new provisions for surveillance.

When voluntary co-operation does not work, the measures include directions applied by medical officers of health.

Prosecution for offences under the legislation is a last resort.

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