Health and Safety Practices for Tattoo and Body Piercing Professionals

Professionals in the body modification industry, including tattooing, body piercing, branding, and scarification, are at risk of transmitting blood-borne pathogens without proper health and safety practices. This guide details essential practices to protect both practitioners and clients.

Clean Technique for Body Artists

Purpose: The clean technique is designed to minimise the transmission of microorganisms and ensure the safety of both clients and professionals.

Preventing Contamination

• Barrier Protection: Use clean, disposable, single-use gloves and practice proper hand hygiene before, during, and after procedures.
• Skin Preparation: Clean and prepare the skin area with an antibacterial solution as per manufacturer recommendations.
• Use of Materials: Utilise single-use articles or transfer materials from bulk to single-use containers, disposing of them after each client.
• Needles and Supplies: Opt for disposable single-use needles and supplies, adhering to safe injection practices.

Maintaining a Clean Environment

• Cleaning and Disinfection: Regularly clean the environment with detergent and disinfectant, especially after spills of blood or potentially infectious materials.
• Sterilisation of Reusable Tools: Ensure that all reusable tools and equipment are properly cleaned and sterilised. Sterilisation machines should be routinely tested and serviced.
• Work Surface Hygiene: Disinfect chairs and work surfaces between clients using suitable wipes or cleaners.

Safe Disposal of Sharps

Sharps Management: Place needles, scalpels, razors, or other sharps that have been in contact with skin or body fluids into puncture-resistant, closed containers immediately after use. These containers should be easily accessible, clearly labelled, and disposed of correctly when full.

Record Keeping and Equipment Maintenance

Keep detailed service records for all sterilisation equipment and ensure compliance with manufacturer’s recommendations for maintenance and testing.