Think you know everything about your tattoo gun? Well, you might be surprised by the paperwork side of the UK tattoo industry. Before flexing those artistic muscles, let’s get into the nitty-gritty of UK tattoo laws.
After all, dodging a legal battle is just as important as dodging a wonky line.
Whether you’re a tattoo shop owner or an artist of whatever tattoo style or trend in the UK, it’s time to make sure your legal ducks are in a row. Because let’s face it, dealing with an unhappy client is stressful enough without the added pressure of potential fines or restrictions.
Age requirement
The Tattooing of Minors Act 1969 is like the “no admittance” sign for anyone under 18 wanting to get inked in the UK. It’s the age requirement to get a tattoo in London, even if a parent gives the green light.
This law exists because a tattoo is a forever kind of decision, and young people need to have the time and maturity to fully understand that before going under the needle. There might be potential health risks too.
As tattoo artists, it’s part of your job to uphold this law. Not only does it protect young people, but it helps keep our profession reputable. Breaking this rule could result in hefty fines, maybe even time behind bars, and losing your license to tattoo altogether.
Licensing and registration
Think of your local council as the hygiene police when it comes to tattoo studios. They require registration and pop-in for surprise inspections to make sure everything is squeaky clean and safe.
We’re talking dedicated sinks, sterilised equipment, and surfaces so smooth they wouldn’t snag a silk scarf – all to prevent any unwanted infections.
To get on the council’s good side, you’ll need to fill out some paperwork about yourself and your studio and cough up a registration fee (the price tag depends on where you are). If you pass their inspection, you’ll get an official certificate of registration (or licence).
Health and safety regulations
Local councils enforce strict health and safety regulations (backed up by something called the Workplace Health, Safety, and Welfare Regulations… try saying that three times fast!). This means your studio needs proper ventilation, a workspace so clean you could practically eat off it, and everything spaced out just right to avoid mishaps.
Tattoo shops in London get an extra layer of scrutiny when it comes to equipment too. Reusable things like needles and clamps get a deep spa-level cleaning in special sterilising machines called autoclaves. Anything single-use gets tossed responsibly to avoid contamination issues.
Artists must also have a Hepatitis B vaccination. And finally, say goodbye to any clinical waste – it gets disposed of the right way to stop nasty things like HIV and hepatitis from spreading.
Insurance
In the UK, tattoo artists need insurance to operate legally. A Public Liability policy is a must-have, as it’s often a requirement for obtaining your licence. This type of insurance protects you against claims arising from potential injuries, infections, or client dissatisfaction with your work.
Specialised tattoo insurance policies can offer even more comprehensive coverage, including protection against claims of negligence or errors, issues directly related to tattoo procedures, the costs of damaged or stolen equipment, and even lost income if your studio is unexpectedly shut down.
