Outcomes of solarium industry efforts to improve compliance with recommended practices: a clear case for formal regulation.

Background: This study aimed to explore the effect of an industry-led self-education intervention on voluntary compliance with the international recommendations on solaria for cosmetic purposes in New South Wales, Australia, and to establish current compliance with recommendations. This study was conducted before the recent introduction of enforceable legislation in some Australian states.

Methods: Simulated customer visits were made to a sample of 106 solaria in 2003 and 2006. A 'top-up' sample (n=61) was also visited in 2006 to establish current compliance levels. Simulated customers recorded whether they were asked about age, skin type or medications taken; the contents of any warning signs; information provided regarding consent forms, equipment, health risks and age restrictions; permitted frequency and duration of visits; and claims regarding safety.

Results: An examination of pre-test and post-test compliance found little change over time. The current prevalence of compliance was less than optimal, with <10% of the operators suggesting that the fair-skinned customer should not use the solarium, and only 2% of the operators refusing access to this customer.

Conclusion: Industry attempts to delay enforced regulation of solarium operators via committing to self-education are not likely to produce a substantial or a sustained increase in protection for solarium users.