Tattoo hygiene rating scheme

How we ensure tattoo businesses are hygienic

What is the Tattoo Hygiene Rating Scheme?

Businesses which carry out the practice of Tattooing are invited to take part in the Tattoo Hygiene Rating Scheme (THRS).

Please note, the scheme is in relation to hygiene and safety only. The scheme is not for the purpose of evaluating the quality of art work.

The following applies to the scheme:

• it's a voluntary scheme which is being implemented in various local authorities across England and Wales
• the main aim is to improve hygiene standards in the business and amongst the artists
• only registered artists/studios can take part

What are the benefits?

The benefits for tattoo studios are:

• a good reputation for hygiene as well as art work can lead to more business
• the public will be able to make an informed decision, on which tattoo studio they decide to visit

How are the ratings determined?

The process is as follows:

• studios which take part will be inspected
• each rating level has standards which must be achieved
• to graduate to the next level, the studio must meet all of the standards for the lower ratings

What are the ratings?

1. Needs Improvement
2. Satisfactory
3. Good
4. Very Good

How often will businesses be rated?

We aim to re-inspect premises every 12 months.

How can I join the scheme?

You'll need to complete our application form.

Remember everyone in your studio needs to agree to the rules of the scheme.

Download our THRS application

Withdrawal from the scheme

If you have changed your mind and want to withdraw from the scheme you'll need to write to us, explaining why.

You'll also need to return the certificate and window sticker as these remain the property of the Borough Council.

Can I be re-rated?

If your score wasn't what you were hoping for, you can make a request to be rated, but this must be in writing.

After your initial visit, an officer will write to tell you what you need to do to reach a higher score.

You then need to give yourself time to carry out the works

If you have requested a re-rating visit, this will be carried out, three months after your initial visit.

I don't agree with my score

If you want to appeal your rating, this needs to be completed in writing and sent to our Environmental Health Manager.

The grounds for appeal:

• the rating given, doesn't properly reflect the conditions of the studio at the time of rating
• the rating criteria was incorrectly applied

Businesses taking part

Unregistered Tattooists

If you're aware of someone operating unregistered, complete our 'Report a Scratcher' form. Please provide as much detail as possible so that we can start our enquiries.

Where possible we will keep your anonymity, but please provide details so we can speak to you to obtain as much detail as possible.