A NEW byelaw means beauticians could be fined for carrying out ‘temporary tattoos’ without a licence.
Calderdale Council has introduced the policy, which affects anyone offering tattooing, piercing, micropigmentation, electrolysis and acupuncture.
They are now warning customers not to have any of the services done at an unlicensed practice.
A Calderdale spokes-woman said: “There is a growing national problem with unlicensed people offering amateur tattoos and piercings in unlicensed premises.
“If you have a tattoo or piercing in these circumstances it could cost you your health.
“There is a fear that people receiving such treatments could be at risk from serious and life threatening blood borne diseases such as HIV and Hepatitis B and C.
“The new byelaws and codes of practice will help protect people’s health.”
A new licensing system allows Environmental Health officers to check that all practices are to the required standards, helping to ensure public health and safety.
They are advising customers to use only licensed premises which ensure a high standard.
Calderdale Council is among the first local authorities in the country to introduce the system.
It has worked with the Health and Safety Executive to produce information booklets containing all the relevant information, which will be available in licensed practices.
If people have concerns about whether a practice or operator is licensed or operating safely they can contact Calderdale Council on 0845 245 6000.
