Tanning beds are class II medical devices as classified by the FDA.
Class I/II Exemptions shows the requirements for the classification and what the exemptions are.
Class I medical devices are items such as bandages, exam gloves, handheld surgical instruments, etc.
Class II medical devices include electric wheel chairs, surgical drapes, infusion pumps, etc.
Class III devices are usually those that support or sustain human life, are of substantial importance in preventing impairment of human health, or which present a potential, unreasonable risk of illness or injury.
If tanning beds were used to treat a medical condition or to maintain health, that is a class III medical device and those claims have to be substantiated and reviewed by the FDA. Then, if substaintiated, use of that equipment for those purposes are regulated and require a prescription from a medical doctor.
It is better for the tanning industry that tanning beds are used for cosmetic purposes only.