Warning on mobile tatooists

Craigavon Borough Council is warning both young people and their parents of the dangers of tattoo practices that are operating in the borough following reports and complaints of young people receiving tattoos at house parties.

The council has been alerted to the fact there are ‘mobile tattooists’ operating within the borough. Mobile tattooists are usually not registered which means there is little control or regulation over the infection control and sterilisation procedures, leaving a high risk of infection due to dirty equipment and unsafe practices.

The horrendous health risks include allergic reactions, infection, tetanus, Hepatitis B and C, and possibly HIV.

“No reputable tattooist would even consider tattooing a young person or carrying out a tattoo with the lack of proper sterilised equipment,” commented Councillor Johnny McGibbon, Chair of the Environmental Services Department.

“I would urge all young people to stay away from such an offer and to report these activities to the Environmental Health Department before some serious infections are picked up that could affect the rest of your life.”

The legal age for receiving a tattoo is 18 years and must be carried out by a registered tattoo business.

Tattooists operating in their own premises in the Craigavon Borough Council area are inspected under health and safety legislation on a regular basis and must be registered with the Council to ensure they comply with the Council byelaws. A list of the registered tattooists is available from the Council.

Craigavon Borough Council is seeking the public’s support in cracking down on such activity. Anyone who is aware of these activities should contact Craigavon Borough Council’s Environmental Health Unit on 3831 2400 or email: [email protected]