THE GOVERNMENT IS examining its policy regarding tattoo and body piercings, the health minister has confirmed.
The industry is currently not the subject of specific legislation.
While individual businesses must conform with general public health and safety legislation, no government guidelines for tattoo parlours exist.
Under an on-going review by the Department of Health, a set of guidelines specifically for those working in the industry are to be drawn up.
“The main objective of this guidance is to encourage best hygiene practice by tattooists and piercers, thereby minimising the risk of infection and so protecting them and their clients,” Minister James Reilly said when questioned on the issue by Labour TD Gerald Nash.
He added that one focus of the policy review is for a best practice guidance document to be drawn up.
A draft document has been “the subject of consultation”, the Minister said, with the Department and the HSE expected to publish the guidelines later this year.
Under current legislation, the Safety, Health, and Welfare at Work Acts 2005 and 2010, all employers, employees, and self-employed people must adhere to a set of health and safety guidelines.
To embed this post, copy the code below on your site
have your say