Can Tanning Beds Blow Up or Explode?

Like all electronics, tanning beds have the potential to start a fire.

There have been no reports of tanning bed explosions; however, tanning bed fires do occasionally occur. As with all electric appliances, proper installation, maintenance and regular inspection can prevent tanning bed fires.

Installation

Tanning beds require more electrical voltage than most electrical outlets can provide. A device called a buck booster can remedy this situation; however, great care should be taken to be sure that the correct buck booster is used to provide just the right amount of electricity. Many salon owners prefer to hire a professional electrician to install tanning beds.

Dust

Dust can accumulate in the ballast tray that holds all the electrical components of the tanning bed. Tanning bed owners should vacuum this area every four to six weeks.

Health Warnings

According to WebMD, the use of tanning beds can triple your chance of getting skin cancer. Other tanning methods such as spray tanning and self tanning lotions do not carry this risk.

References

• Fox8,com: Man Escapes Flaming Tanning Bed
• KETV.com: Tanning Bed Sparks Business Fire
• CBC.ca: Tanning Bed Fire- A Hot Topic in Salons
• TanningTutor.com: Tanning Bed Maintenance