The main focus of Lake County General Health District’s Body Art program is to prevent the spread of communicable diseases, such as Hepatitis B, Hepatitis C, HIV, and staph infections. Public health sanitarians inspect and license body art establishments to ensure safe and sanitary conditions are being maintained. Body art establishments include businesses that offer tattoos, piercings, permanent makeup/cosmetics, and microblading. It is important for anyone considering a tattoo or piercing to understand the health risks involved and to follow recommended guidelines when choosing a body art establishment.
Considering a Tattoo or Piercing?
Things to Consider Before Getting a Tattoo or Piercing
- Make sure the business is currently licensed. Lake County General Health District issues licenses for tattoo and/or body piercing and the Operation Approval should be posted.
- Obtaining a tattoo at a party is illegal in Ohio unless artists have obtained approval from the Health Department in their county and have been properly trained to protect your health and safety.
- Check with your doctor to make sure you are healthy enough to get a tattoo or piercing.
- Look for overall cleanliness both in and out of the procedure room(s).
- Ask the business about their sterilization process and whether they use disposable items or if they sterilize on-site at the business.
- Make sure all sterilized equipment (needles, tubes, and jewelry) is opened in front of you.
- Aftercare instructions must be provided. Ask to see the instructions before the procedure.
- No person under the age of 18 can receive a tattoo or body piercing without parent or legal guardian present.
- Artists performing procedures must be trained in bloodborne pathogens and first aid.
- New gloves must be worn by the artist for each procedure. Gloves are for their protection as much as yours.
Opening a Tattoo and/or Piercing Establishment?
Persons seeking approval to operate a business offering tattooing and/or body piercing services must apply to the Board of Health of the Lake County General Health District. The information requested by the Board of Health as part of the application process can be found in the licensing packet.
Body Art Establishment Licensing Packet
All inspections will be conducted to determine compliance with the Ohio Tattoo and Body Piercing Rules.
Ohio Department of Health- Body Art Laws & Rules
For more information on the application process, required written infection control plan, and opening inspections, please contact:
Chris Loxterman
Environmental Health Supervisor
Phone:(440) 350-2551
Email: cloxterman@lcghd.org
Zachary Myers
Public Health Sanitarian
Phone: (440) 350-2160
Email: zmyers@lcghd.org
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