Tag: disposable needles
Creating Tattoo: Sterilization and Prep Work
by Ripple on Jun.02, 2009, under Tattoo & Body Art, Tattoo Machine & Guns, Tattoo Supplies, Tattoo accessories, Tattoo kits, Tattoo needle
A tattoo machine creates a puncture wound every time it injects a drop of ink into the skin. Since any puncture wound has the potential for infection and disease transmission, much of the application process focuses on safety. Tattoo artists use sterilization, disposable materials and hand sanitation to protect themsevels and their clients.
To eliminate the possibility of contamination, most tattoo materials, including links, ink cups, glove and needles, are single use. Many single-use items arrive in sterile packaging, which the artist opens in front of the customer just before beginning work.
Reusable materials, such as the needle bar and tube, are sterilized before every use. The onlu acceptable srerilization method is an autoclave-a heat/steam/pressure unit often used in hospitals.
Prior to sterilizing the equipment, the artist cleans each item and places it in a special pouch. An indicator strip on the pouch changes color when the items inside are sterile.
Before working on customers, tattoo artists wash and inspect their hands for cuts and abrasions. Then, they should do the following:
· Disinfect the work area with an EPA-approved viricide.
· Place plastic bags on spray bottles to prevent cross-contamination.
· Explain the sterilization process to the client.
· Remove all equipment from sterile packaging in front of the client.
· Shave and disinfect (with a mixture of water and antiseptic soap) the area to be tattooed.
How To Find a Safe Tattoo Shop
by Helen on Apr.17, 2009, under Tattoo & Body Art, Tattoo Knowledge, Tattoo Supplies, Tattoo news
