COUNCIL inspectors have carried out spot checks on a number of sunbed salons across Cumbria.

An investigation by Cumbria County Council Trading Standards has found most sunbed parlours in Cumbria comply with safety laws.

Trading standards officers visited 34 tanning studios and outlets in the county and found the vast majority complied with legal and safety standard requirements, with only a few minor irregularities found.

Cumbria Trading Standards carried out the checks across Cumbria over the past two months as part of a survey of tanning salons, gyms and other outlets to ensure they are safe.

The survey findings for Cumbria are in contrast with checks conducted at tanning salons and similar establishments elsewhere in the UK that have shown many sunbeds exceeded the European safety limit for ultra violet (UV) radiation, of 0.3 watts per square metre.

Councillor Janet Willis, Cumbria County Council Cabinet member for Trading Standards, said: “Our officers visited a number of tanning outlets in the county to assess compliance and offer advice to salons. It’s pleasing that most salons do comply with the law. However, we’re not complacent and will continue to work with operators to ensure safety standards are maintained in Cumbria.”

Councillor Ian Stewart, Cumbria County Council Cabinet member for Public Health, added: “While these results are encouraging, we would still ask people to take care when considering using tanning salons. Prolonged exposure to UV rays can damage your eyes, harm your skin and increase your risk of developing skin cancer. Our advice would be to avoid tanning studios but those who do use them should stick to reputable outlets and limit their exposure.”