Council and Constabulary clamp down on unlicensed tattooists

The Highland Council’s Environmental Health Service and Northern Constabulary have launched an investigation into unlicensed tattooists working within the area and the tattooing of young people under the age of eighteen.

Unlicensed tattooists operate to potentially unhygienic standards, adopt inadequate sterilisation techniques and have no safe disposal facilities for sharps.  Consequently they can expose their clients to a possible risk of blood-borne virus such as HIV, and Hepatitis B & C.

Sergeant Angus Stewart, Community Beat Supervisor for Inverness commented:  “We are working with The Highland Council’s Environmental Health Service to support the regulation of this form of activity that can have a massive detrimental impact on the health of individuals.” 

The Environmental Health Service is seeking help from the public to trace these unlicensed operators that will assist them in putting a stop to potentially unsafe practices.

Zoe Skinner, Environmental Health Officer leading the investigation for The Highland Council said:  “Anyone considering getting a tattoo should ensure they use a licensed tattooist with a good track record.  Licensed tattooists will have a copy of their licence displayed within the premises and are inspected to ensure they comply with strict health, safety and sterilisation procedures.”

Both agencies would encourage members of the public who have information on unlicensed tattooists, tattooists working from domestics premises or anyone tattooing young people under the age of eighteen should contact either Police in Inverness on 01463 715555 or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111 or Environmental Health, 21 Church Street, Inverness IV1 1DY, Tel (01463) 703968. Any information will be treated in confidence and people should be assured that they have not committed an offence by using an unlicensed tattooist.