The number and popularity of tanning facilities has rapidly grown throughout the State. Various physical complications can arise from frequent and unsupervised use of these tanning facilities such as overexposure to ultraviolet radiation that can cause severe sunburn and eye injury including cataracts and corneal damage. Repeated exposure to ultraviolet (UV) light in tanning facilities can also cause premature aging of the skin and skin cancers. Overexposure to UV radiation may also suppress proper functioning of the body's immune system and the skin's natural defenses, increasing sensitivity to sunlight, diminishing the effects of immunizations or causing reactions to certain medications. On January 20, 2009, regulations went into effect that established minimum safety and sanitation standards for the operation of tanning facilities in order to protect the health and safety of consumers that patronize these businesses. All tanning facilities are required to register with the New Jersey Department of Health & Senior Services. The rules cover areas such as patron age requirements, equipment, employee training and record keeping. Environmental Health Unit personnel perform annual inspections at these tanning facilities. On April 1, 2013 the New Jersey Legislature amended the tanning facilities law (N.J.S.A. 26:2D-81). Under the new law, minors under 17 years of age are banned from using tanning beds. In addition, minors less than 14 years of age are now prohibited from using spray-tanning facilities. The effective date of the new law is October 1, 2013. For more information on this program, please contact the New Jersey Department of Health and Senior Services at 609-826-4935 or the Atlantic County Division of Public Health, Environmental Health Unit at 609-645-5971. Legal References: N.J.S.A. 26:2D-81 et seq. N.J.A.C. 8:28-1 et seq.

Helpful Links:

• New Jersey Department of Health - Public Health Sanitation & Safety Program
• U.S. Food & Drug Administration (FDA)