August 19, 2008 was a great day for tattooing in Hawaii! On that day the Alliance of Professional Tattooists held Hawaii's very first blood born pathogen seminar geared specifically to tattooers and body piercers. I was the instructor and had great assistance from my mentor and dear friend, Mike Martin, education coordinator for the APT.
Mike Martin and Tricia Allen checking in Tino and Adam. 9 am? It's too early, folks!
We had a good representation of shops on Oahu; Skin Deep Tattoo, Tattoolicious, House of Ink, Ink Pit, Aito Tattoo, South Pacific Tattoo, Pacific Soul and Custom Tattoos. By invitation a number of inspectors from the Department of Health were present also. A CDC Hepatitis specialist was there to administer Hep B vaccinations to those who needed to start their series and also to contribute up to the minute CDC knowledge regarding communicable diseases.
If you were lucky enough to catch the KHON news spot you could see that while we burned our brains with microbiology, virology, immunology and other $10 words we also had a great time!! A simulated germ substance was applied to hands and then our students went to wash as normal. A blacklight revealed spots missed in calloused areas, knuckles and wrists. Everyone learned a great lesson about how to reeeeally wash our hands each and every time! One lady was caught on camera saying 'Ooooh, I am so bad!'
There are many blood borne pathogen programs available but very few are industry specific such as this one. While there were many laughs throughout the day there was a great deal of knowledge passed along as well as received from the participants. People shared stories, talked about health issues and I think everyone walked away with a renewed sense of the seriousness of our occupation.
A hearty MAHALO to all who attended!
I must add that one participant told me weeks later that they had noticed a problem with a piercing. Normally they would not seek medical advice but after the knowledge they gained from this seminar they went to their medical professional...and a good thing. The staph infection had not spread from the piercing and was readily knocked out. Delay of treatment could have been quite serious.
Knowledge is a powerful tool....make sure your body art professional has it in their work bench.
On Labor Day another seminar was held for tattooers from Guam. Philip and David care enough for their profession to gain the knowledge and training of this seminar by putting Honolulu on their return ticket. We had a great day once again learning and swappin' stories. It's just amazing how tattooing is tattooing....no matter where in the world you might be!
David and Philip from Guam
Tattooers, piercers, apprentices, desk staff, even those just thinking about tattooing...if you are interested in hosting a seminar or just want to inquire what it entails....email me!
As always....anyone with questions regarding any aspect of body modifications please contact me. As Mr. Lau from the DOH said in one of our meetings "It's about educating the public". Yes it is, Sir, yes it is.
SPAY AND NEUTER YOUR PETS! Help stop the pet explosion. There are too many organizations available to help you if you can't afford it! Please! Remember, you have your friends, your job, your world....'you' are all your pets have. Protect them!
