607 Tattoo and Body Art Safety

Sections

Gloves

Proper use of gloves, regular handwashing, and the use of disposable supplies are foundational practices for maintaining hygiene in a tattoo studio.

Tattoo artist washing hands with water and soap

Handwashing can get rid of most of the disease-causing organisms on a person's hands.

Tattoo artists should wear gloves at all times during the tattooing process and change them between different tasks to avoid contamination.

Handwashing

Handwashing is equally critical in preventing the spread of infections. Tattoo artists should wash their hands thoroughly with soap and water for at least 20 seconds before and after each client interaction, after removing gloves, and before handling any clean equipment or supplies. Using an antimicrobial soap can provide additional protection by killing a wider range of germs.

Disposable Supplies

Disposable supplies, such as gloves, needles, and ink cups, should be used whenever possible to minimize the risk of transmitting infections from one client to another. Disposable items should be discarded immediately after use and never reused. These practices are vital in maintaining a sterile environment and ensuring client safety.

Knowledge Check Choose the best answer for the question.

2-4. Why should tattoo artists change gloves between different tasks during the tattooing process?

To avoid cross-contamination

To reduce the amount of ink used

To prevent the gloves from tearing

To keep their hands dry

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