Council’s Environmental Health Officers inspect premises where tattooing is undertaken on an annual basis to ensure that they comply with the Local Government Act 1993 and the Public Health Act 1991. These premises are required to be maintained in a clean and sanitary condition and suitably constructed to ensure hygienic conditions.
Why does Council inspect these premises?
It is a legislative requirement that prior to opening for trade, that all skin penetration premises must be approved and registered with Council.
The objectives of the ongoing inspection program are:
- to ensure operators are aware of their obligations to provide hygienic services under public health legislation, guidelines and codes of practice
- to ensure the health of the public is protected when they receive treatments or services
Why is it important for a Tattooist to follow correct procedures?
There are risks of disease transmission from some services provided, especially where skin penetrating procedures are carried out. Diseases such as Hepatitis B, Hepatitis C and HIV may be passed from client to client if correct hygienic skin penetration procedure is not followed. It is imperative that all operators make sure their staff follow correct procedures to protect both themselves and their customers.
Where can I get more information?
Regulations and standards that apply to skin penetration and tattooists can be found at NSW Department of Health, Legislation NSW or contact Council’s Environmental Health Officers on (02) 6767 5555.