Council makes its mark on unregistered Morecambe tattoo parlour

Using powers contained in the Public Health (Control of Disease) Act 1984, officers from the council’s Environmental Health Team supported by the police, seized equipment from tattoo business LA7Ink of 296 Marine Road Central, Morecambe.

Having investigated the premises, the action was taken to safeguard the public because of concerns that the premises were not suitable and that there was a risk of infection to anyone who had a tattoo.

While there have not been any reports of anyone contracting an infection from treatments performed by LA7ink, it was believed that there were significant grounds for concern that warranted the action being taken.

The proprietors of LA7Ink had previously been advised that the premises needed to be registered and comply with appropriate hygiene standards but the operators of the business did not follow the advice given.

Coun Andrew Warriner, Cabinet member for environmental health, said: “Unregistered tattooists are operating illegally and I strongly advise anyone who is thinking of getting a tattoo, or skin piercing or cosmetic microblade treatment to make the necessary checks first that the premises is registered with their local council and therefore meets the required standards.

“Those performing such procedures must have excellent hygiene standards to minimise the risk of infection, and if you have any doubt, you should take your business elsewhere.

“The action taken demonstrates how seriously we take public health and where concerns are raised, we will not hesitate to take action”.

Public Health England advise that poor conditions can result in bacterial skin infection at the site of the tattoo, and blood borne viral infections if equipment is inadequately cleaned between clients.

If you have any health concerns visit www.lancaster.gov.uk/tattooing where you will also find a list of registered tattooing premises operating in the area.