Re: UV Tanning

[G A Zabierek <GAZ@safety1.bham.ac.uk>]

> Anyone out there familiar with studies on UV-A risks that could 
>provide me some data?  I would also be interested in hearing from 
>our colleagues in the UK, which I believe regulates tanning salons 
>(unlike the U.S.).  How reliable are the claims of the manufacturers 
>that the bulbs only emit UV-A?

I would refer you to NRPB-R269  published November 1994, HMSO, 
ISBN 0-85951-374-2.      Cellular and Molecular Effects of UVA and 
UVB.    N A Cridland and R D Saunders.     
 Abstract of contents
   "The evidence for the cellular and molecular effects of exposure to 
ultraviolet radiation (UVR) has been reviewed.    Human exposure to 
UVR has been associated with the development of malignant skin 
tumours and this review concentrates on effects relevant to this 
process, with paticular emphasis on wavelength dependance.
   There is evidence that UVR acts as a complete carcinogen 
influencing all three major stages of skin carcinogenesis, initiation, 
promotion and progression.
   Exposure to UVR may influence tumour progression through a 
number of mechanisms, including further photochemical damage to 
DNA, induction of cellular responses which may increase genetic 
instability, and widespread changes in components of the immune 
system present in the skin.  The latter results in an 
immumosuppressive effect which may compromise the ability of the 
body to identify and destroy cancerous cells.
   Recommedations for further research are made."
423 references are listed.

In the UK, the Health and Safety at Work etc Act 1974 and 
Management of Health and Safety Regulations 1992 provide the 
general regulatory framework, there is guidance available on UV 
commercial equipment and there was a notable successful 
prosecution  where someone received burns from overexposure as a 
result of equipment which had a faulty timer.   There is a British 
Standard for UV tanning equipment for household and similar use (BS 
EN 60335-2-27).

I hope that helps with your enquiry.




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                 Gus Zabierek             
             Health & Safety Adviser/RPA
***********   Health and Safety Unit    ***************
***********  University of Birmingham   ***************
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*********  email: G.A.Zabierek@BHAM.AC.UK ***********
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