The use of sunbeds, which has ever so often been opposed in New Zealand, is being defended by none other than the only group in favor of their use, the Indoor Tanning Association of New Zealand. The defense has come after the publication Consumer had published a report on the practices being followed by sunbed operators.

In the article by the consumer, it has been reported that the previous four surveys by the magazine had continued to show the same results of a lack of standards. The magazine has demanded that the operators should be allowed to function only after the allocation of a license to operate and the introduction of a set of standards that have to be followed to safeguard the interests of consumers.

Though, the operators union has agreed to the recommendation of setting up a benchmark for the functioning of such facilities. It has also accepted the fact that operators should be allowed to function only after acquiring a license.

Though, the association has strongly opposed the fact that the use of sunbeds was specifically targeted in the report to bring bad name to the industry.

Talking about the number of people exposed to UV rays, a Spokesperson for the Indoor Tanning Association said that only a minority 5-8% Kiwis used sunbeds in a year, whereas, 92-95% of the New Zealanders were exposed to the UV rays of the sun.