July 26, 2017 2.34 pm This story is over 80 months old

Council warning over dangers of using unregistered tattoists

A Lincolnshire council has warned residents about the potential dangers of using unregistered tattooists and piercers.

South Holland District Council has warned residents about the potential dangers of using unregistered tattooists and piercers.

The council has said that as more people opt to get piercings or tattoos, going to unregistered places could lead to deadly conditions such as HIV or hepatitis.

Council environmental health inspectors visit registered premises regularly and monitor compliance against the district laws.

All registered skin piercers must display a certificate of registration and if they cannot then it is likely that they are unregistered.

Councillor Anthony Casson, portfolio holder for public protection at the council, said: “One of the main reasons for registration is the protection of public health, particularly against the spread of infection.

“We believe that there may be unregistered skin piercers operating in the district and we are keen to make people aware of this.

“We would encourage anyone who suspects that a skin piercer is operating illegally to report this to us.

“If you are considering any of these treatments please ensure you only use a registered operator.”

A list of registered skin piercers can be viewed at here.

Anyone who is aware of a tattooist in South Holland operating without the relevant registration or offering to tattoo under 18, should contact the police or South Holland District Council on 01775 761161 or via email on [email protected]