People wishing to carry out tattooing, acupuncture, semi-permanent skin colouring, cosmetic piercing or electrolysis are required to register both themselves and the premises used for that purpose with their Local Authority under the Local Government (Misc Provisions) Act 1982.|
Should you wish to operate from more than one premises you will need to register each premises. There are no powers to refuse registration, but the practice is controlled through compliance with byelaws|.
For more information on how to register or to register please click here|.
It is an offence to conduct tattooing, semi-permanent skin colouring, cosmetic piercing or electrolysis unless the registration has been formally 
approved.
Under the Health & Safety at Work Act 1974|, you have a general duty of care to persons not in your employment, you must therefore ensure that the procedures, equipment and facilities used are safe, hygienic and prevent the spread of infection.
Unregistered operatives.
An unregistered person found operating illegally either from their own homes, an unregistered premises or a registered premises face a fine of up to £1,000 from the courts.
People who are aware of unregistered people working illegally should get in contact with the Health & Safety Team as there is no guarantee that they are compying with the byelaws.
Risks associated with buying equipment online.
Even though tattoos etc have become very popular in recent years it is vital people do not put themselves at risk by ensuring that they use a registered operative at a registered premises. The ease of purchasing equipment online by the public means there could be an increased risk of Hepatitis|, Septicaemia| and HIV|. Untrained people may not take the necessary precautions when using the equipment this could lead to the wound/s becoming infected.
Under 18's
The Tattooing of Minors Act (1969)| prohibits the permanent tattooing of anyone in Great Britain under the age of 18 years. Operatives should ask for proof of age before tattooing a client. If you have a complaint about under age tattooing you should contact your local police station.
Information for teachers
Please click here| for an information leaflet for teachers on illegal tattooing and under age tattooing.
Last Modified: Wednesday 13 June 2012