We have the privilege of working in a state that was a forerunner in the regulation of tattooing in the United States.  Some might ask why we need regulations. As I have said before, tattooing is a body invasive procedure with exposure to blood borne pathogens that not only can cause disease, but death. Our Health Department recognized that potential in 1981 and established our first set of regulations. While no regulations are perfect, our system establishes standards that all studios should be following. To a well trained tattooer, these regulations are standard operating procedures. Following them protects not only the client but the tattooer as well. In 2009 our regulations were updated along with the tattoo license exam to reflect the changing health atmosphere of today.

A few of the key points of our regulations are:

• Tattooing is only allowed in an inspected, licensed facility and performed by Hawaii state licensed tattooers.
• Studios are inspected yearly for proper equipment, flooring, plumbing and layout.
• Tattooers are initially given a written test on blood borne pathogens, procedures and regulations and after passing that test are required to renew every two years.
• Out of state licenses are not recognized by our DOH and are not transferrable to Hawaii.

Tattooing without a license or outside of an inspected facility can result in a $5000 fine PER incident. Five illegal tattoos could equal a $25K fine—ouch! Note the letter sent out to all studios from our Department of Health: 

Our state’s guidelines for tattooing are basic in comparison to other areas. Many states and counties have much more extreme regulations and fees. Oklahoma charges $500 per individual license per year and $1000 per studio per year. Some states do not allow apprenticeships unless under the instruction of qualified teachers—that qualification is dictated by strict criteria such as proof of education and prior training in the field. In Hawaii we have a set of regulations that are livable, fair and timely. The update in 2009 and the revamping of the tattooer exam have given our state a common-sense approach to this industry.

In choosing a tattooer it is important to ask how they are educated, properly trained and licensed by the State of Hawaii. Ask hard questions. Where were they trained and by whom? What type of sterilization do they use? Autoclaving is the ONLY way if they aren’t using pre-sterilized needles and disposable tubes. Ask to see the autoclave and ask if it is monitored for performance by an outside agency. Look for the tattooer’s license and the shop inspection certificate. Take a hard look at their portfolios. The work you receive will be with you for life. Is it what you want to see there every day?

Again, tattooing is a body invasive procedure that exposes all involved to possible transmission of serious blood-borne pathogens. It is not an activity for a kitchen table, a garage or the spare bedroom. Quality tattooers who respect the trade and respect their clients work in controlled environments… licensed and inspected studios. Taking the cheap route of having a buddy try out his new ‘gun’ and other tools he bought off EBay or Heaven forbid at the mall is like Russian Roulette—is the ‘gun’ loaded or not? Does he understand about Hepatitis and its shelf life? Does he understand about the difference between disinfectants and antiseptics? Would you trust your home to a pal who bought a few things at the hardware store and is now going to rewire your home? So why trust your health and your life to an experiment?

Please, think before you ink. Regulations are in place to protect the public and the tattooer. Respect your body and your health by keepin’ it safe and abiding by them!