Tattooing guidance

Tattooing procedure

Measures required, include:

• Consent forms - must include name, address and telephone number and email address (optional) type of ID seen (should be photo ID, for example, driving licence or passport). Recording details of the design and area to be tattooed is recommended. Records must be kept for 2 years.
• A completed medical questionnaire completed by the client prior to any procedures been carried out.
• After care advice given, verbally and in written form.
• Working surfaces - good construction, in a suitable material that is capable of being cleaned and disinfected.
• Floors and walls – in good condition, in a suitable material that is capable of being cleaned and where necessary, disinfected. Floors should be well sealed.
• Procedures for cleaning working surfaces with a sodium hypochlorite based solution or sanitiser.
• Designated wash hand basin for operators use only, with liquid dispensed soap (preferably anti-bacterial), hot and cold running water (or suitably controlled hot water), connected to main drainage to the property.
• Disposable paper towels for hand drying and foot operated towel waste bin.
• Suitable couch or chairs, arm and leg rests with washable surfaces, in good condition capable of being disinfected.
• Disposable vinyl or nitrile gloves, latex should be avoided as they can cause latex allergy problems.
• Procedures for cleaning client’s skin, for example, using isopropyl alcohol wipes or spray.
• Trigger spray bottles or similar, clearly labelled. The covering to be renewed between clients. Any bottles should be either capable of being sterilised in an autoclave, or disposable.
• Disposable razors for shaving skin.
• Stencil application procedure.
• Disposable single use spatulas or tongue depressors for Vaseline, or similar, application.
• Pre-sterilized single use needles.
• Pre-sterilized grips and tips. If not pouched, they should be stored in a clean sealed container after cooling and used within 4 hours. They must be sterilised again before use.
• Tattoo motors and clip cords covered with plastic, elastic bands used on tattoo motors, to be renewed between clients.
• Disposable ink caps, replaced between clients.
• Disposable tissue for wiping the skin.
• Dressing or cling film for application after tattoo.
• Sharps box and clinical waste contract with a licensed operator. You will be asked to produce evidence of your contract.
• Deep sink with hot and cold water for washing instruments.
• Procedures for cleaning tips and grips if disposables are not used:
  • thorough cleaning in hot soapy water, using a lumen brush to remove debris, rinse in clean hot water
  • place in ultrasonic bath for manufacturer’s recommended time; and
  • place in autoclave.  Pouches must only be used with vacuum sterilisers.
• Autoclave sterilisation procedures, record and maintenance sheets. These should include daily or weekly checks, annual calibration for temperature and written scheme of examination under health and safety legislation covering pressure systems. You will be asked to produce the documentation to prove this examination has been carried out.
• A body fluid spill kit, consisting of disposable aprons, gloves, cloths, plastic bags and hypochlorite based solution.
• First aid kit and you must have a basic qualification in first aid.
• Training or apprenticeship details of the person applying for registration. Membership of a professional organisation is recommended.   
• Hepatitis B vaccination is recommended. Ask your medical practitioner for further details .