BODY ART

Creating living art is a unique talent, but it puts tattooists and piercers at risk of coming in contact with their client’s blood. This means artists may also be exposed to a bloodborne pathogen, such as hepatitis B virus, hepatitis C virus, or human immunodeficiency virus (HIV).

These viruses can be dangerous. They can make you sick and they can possibly make your family sick, if they are exposed. Some of these diseases are permanent and can be fatal.

Artists can be exposed to a bloodborne virus during the set-up, procedure, break down, and clean-up stages. These exposures can occur through needlesticks, contact with dried blood on equipment or surfaces, or blood splashes in the eyes, nose, or mouth.

Keeping a clean shop and using safe work practices, ensures a safe and professional atmosphere for artists and clients.