QC cracks down on piercing, tattoo shops

Recognizing potential health risks, the Quezon City government has approved an ordinance seeking to regulate the operations of tattoo and body piercing establishments.

Ordinance No. SP-2646, or the “Tattoo and Body Piercing Regulation Ordinance,” lists penalties for violators. It cites “recent and relevant studies” showing the “bad health effects” of tattooing and piercing when done improperly.

These include allergic reactions; skin, fungal and bacterial infections; blood-borne diseases; and the transmission of human immunodeficiency virus and acquired immunodeficiency syndrome.

Owners of these establishments must follow requirements set by the city’s health department and Business Permits and Licensing Office.

They should also keep records of their clientele, specifically, their name, signature, address and age, tattoo design, location on body and date of tattooing.