Published on 15th July 2014

tattooing

Cheltenham Borough Council will begin to deliver a Tattoo Hygiene Rating Scheme (THRS) from today, 15 July 2014.

Similar to the food hygiene rating scheme, the implementation of the tattoo scheme will help raise standards across the industry and inform the public about hygiene standards in premises.

The voluntary scheme will be delivered by the council’s public protection team. The scheme is supported by the Tattoo and Piercing Industry Union as well as the Chartered Institute of Environmental Health.

Premises that volunteer to participate will be given a rating following scheduled inspections. These ratings can be displayed as a certificate or as a window sticker. Premises will be re-rated on a scheduled basis.

The three main public health objectives of the scheme are to:
  • Inform the public about the hygiene standards in the premises at the time of the most recent inspection
  • Drive up standards of hygiene
  • Reduce the risk of infections and transmitting infectious diseases through tattooing procedures.
Sara Ball, senior environmental health officer said: “The scheme will help make the High Street the location of choice for a tattoo and improve the reputation of the legitimate trade whilst highlighting the risks associated if people are tempted to go to “scratchers” or use tattooing kits in their own homes"

Cllr Andrew McKinlay, cabinet member for development and safety added: “This is a fantastic scheme to be involved with, as it will inform the public about the hygiene standards in the premises at the time of the most recent inspection but it will also help tattoo studios participating in the scheme to improve their hygiene standards, where necessary, with the help and advice of the borough council officers.”

For press enquiries, contact: Tom Wheatly, commissioning assistant, tel: 01242 775192 or email: [email protected]