Don't leave with more than you expected

More and more people are having their skin pierced, tattooed or visiting acupuncturists and electrolysists – the message is not to leave with more than you’re expecting.

By law any premises that carries out these procedures is required to register and be inspected by the local authority. Failure to do so is punishable by a fine of up to £1,000.

Between Monday 9 April and Monday 7 May Hertsmere Borough Council’s Environmental Health team is holding an amnesty to encourage local businesses to register without the risk of incurring a fine.

Michael Georgiou, who is leading the amnesty, said: “Unsafe practices during piercing, tattooing or acupuncture can lead to hepatitis, septicaemia and HIV amongst many other transmittable infections.

“Our regulations are in place to protect the public from unregistered business that may have below standard hygiene levels. Registered premises must display their registration form in a visible position for members of the public to see. I’d urge people to look out for this before having any work undertaken or ask to see the businesses registration form. You can't be too safe with your health.

“The aim of our amnesty is to encourage local businesses, that may have not registered yet, to do so. Perhaps you just didn’t realise you had to register or you have simply not got around to it and are worried that by coming to the council now you’ll be fined. You have until 7 May to do so without any repercussions.”

For more information please contact the Environmental Health department on 020 8207 7435 or visit our website: www.hertsmere.gov.uk