‘Think before you ink’ says SKDC as it launches tattoo hygiene rating scheme

The scheme, the first by an authority in Lincolnshire and only the second within the East Midlands, was introduced earlier this year following a trade workshop for the 13 registered studios in the district.

Inspections took place earlier in 2015 and the council has now published ratings for each studio from four (very good) down to one (needs improvement).

SKDC’s portfolio holder for healthy environment Councillor Nick Craft said: “Tattoos are increasingly popular, prompting a number of businesses to take up trading in the district in recent years.

“We welcome these businesses and know the majority run safe practices that residents can be confident of using safely without the health risks such as HIV and Hepatitis that can be associated with unsafe tattooing.

“This scheme is there to give added peace of mind as a safety net and customers an independent view on which studios take hygiene very seriously. We expect the scheme to grow in a similar fashion to the food hygiene ratings scheme.”

All studios must, by law, be registered with the council and are currently inspected annually.

To join the rating scheme is voluntary. See which studios are registered and rated.

Studios with a hygiene rating also receive a window sticker. ‘Very good’ and ‘good’ rated premises should display their stickers prominently on their premises.

For more information on the scheme or anyone who suspects of illegal home tattooing taking place in South Kesteven should call SKDC on 01476 406080 or email [email protected]