-
Was the body art industry included in the development of Larimer County's proposed regulations?
Larimer County’s proposed regulations are based on national guidelines developed by the National Environmental Health Association (NEHA) with input from people who work in the body art industry. During that process, NEHA included extensive input and participation from the body art industry, with industry professionals serving alongside environmental health regulators in the development and review of the Model Code. Together, they helped make sure the guidelines reflect real-world practices and support the safety of both artists and clients.
We’re using these guidelines as a starting point, but we also want to hear from local body art professionals. Your experience and feedback can help us develop requirements that are clear, practical, and work for our local body art community.
-
How will the program benefit body artists and businesses?
The program helps:
- Promote consistent safety standards.
- Increase consumer confidence.
- Create a level playing field among businesses.
- Reduce the risk of disease transmission.
- Provide a mechanism to address unsafe operators.
-
How will the program protect clients?
The regulations require:
- Proper sterilization of reusable instruments.
- Safe disposal of needles and sharps.
- Documentation of artist training.
- Written aftercare instructions.
- Client consent and risk notification forms.
- Proper sanitation and infection control procedures.
-
Is there evidence that a program is needed?
Yes. In the latter part of 2023, the Larimer County Department of Health and Environment conducted a survey of local body art establishments. The survey identified compliance gaps in several important public health areas, including Hepatitis B vaccination documentation, handwashing facilities, sterilization records, and spore testing of autoclaves.
What did the survey find?
Some notable findings included:
- 68% of the establishments surveyed could not provide Hepatitis B records for artists.
- 53% had issues with handwashing sinks or supplies.
- 57% of establishments using autoclaves did not maintain proper sterilization load logs.
- 43% did not have required monthly spore test records available.
- 21% had deficiencies in aftercare documentation or chemical labeling.
-
Who will be regulated?
The regulations apply to body art establishments and practitioners performing activities such as:
- Tattooing
- Cosmetic tattooing
- Body piercing
- Branding
- Scarification
- Other procedures that penetrate or alter the skin for decorative purposes.
-
What risk or evidence supports the individual requirements?
The requirements address recognized public health risks involving infection prevention, sanitation, sterilization, waste handling, practitioner competency, recordkeeping, and safe operation. The Department considered applicable public health standards, regulatory requirements, and input from body art professionals as well as, other local health departments that administer a regulatory body art program.
-
How will existing establishments be addressed?
Existing establishments will be addressed as part of the implementation of the new program. The Department will evaluate existing conditions and determine what, if any, changes are needed to meet the intent of the regulations.
-
Can an existing studio meet with the Department before its first inspection?
It is possible but will need to be limited to those establishments that need to make a business decision that would best be made after consulting with the department regarding the regulations and licensing requirements.
-
Do the requirements apply to piercing kiosks and other businesses?
Yes, the requirements are intended to apply consistently to businesses performing regulated body art procedures. The requirements apply based on the services being provided rather than the type or business model.
-
What if a business already follows state requirements?
Businesses already following state regulations should experience minimal operational impacts. Local regulations must be at least as protective as state health regulations, but counties may adopt more stringent requirements to address local public health needs. For this reason, businesses should follow local regulations whenever they differ from state requirements. Larimer County's proposed regulations incorporate the most current science, industry standards, and public health best practices to help ensure safe body art practices and protect both clients and practitioners.
-
Do other Colorado counties regulate body art establishments?
Yes. Approximately 80% of Front Range health departments already operate body art inspection programs. Larimer County is one of the few Front Range counties that does not currently have a program.
-
Will temporary tattoo events and conventions be regulated?
Yes. Temporary body art establishments and special events will require permits and must meet health and safety requirements established by the regulations.
-
Will there be fees?
Yes. The Board of Health will establish licensing, application, and other program fees. Fees will support administration, licensing, inspections, education, and enforcement activities.
-
Will existing body art facilities be required to make expensive physical changes to comply with the new regulations?
Not necessarily. Existing facilities will be evaluated based on both compliance with the intent of the regulations and conformance with the specific requirements. There will be three categories:
- Compliant and Conforming: The facility meets both the intent and the specific requirements of the regulations. No changes are needed.
- Compliant and Non-Conforming: The facility meets the intent of the regulations but does not meet every specific requirement as written. No changes are needed because the intent of the regulation is being met.
- Non-Compliant and Non-Conforming: The facility meets neither the intent nor the specific requirements of the regulations. This is the only category in which an existing facility would be required to make changes.
This approach is intended to avoid requiring costly changes when an existing facility is already achieving the public health protection intended by the regulation. Changes would only be required when a facility is not meeting the intent of the regulations.
-
Will the County regulate who can purchase tattoo or piercing equipment?
No. The regulations focus on the operation and licensing of body art establishments and practitioners rather than restricting equipment sales by outside vendors.
-
How will you regulate and/or enforce these regulations on tattooers who do not participate in the program and instead tattoo from home or private studios?
The regulations will apply to body art performed in Larimer County regardless of whether the service is provided in a traditional studio, a private studio, or another location. The Health Department will use complaints, inspections, and other available enforcement tools to identify unlicensed or non-compliant body art activity. Operating outside of the program and the regulatory requirements is not an option.
-
Why is an 80-square-foot procedure area required?
The proposed space requirement is intended to provide adequate room for safe and sanitary body art procedures. Existing establishments will be evaluated individually, recognizing that older studios and different business layouts may have conditions that already meet the intent of the requirement.
-
Will the Department provide education and assistance?
Yes. The Department intends to work collaboratively with operators and artists by providing education, guidance, and technical assistance to help establishments understand and comply with the regulations.
-
Will body artists need to be licensed?
Yes. The proposed regulations require body artists to obtain a practitioner license from the Department and meet training and qualification requirements. Licenses must be displayed in the establishment.
-
What qualifications are required to become licensed?
Body artists must:
- Be at least 18 years old.
- Pass a written examination administered by the Department.
- Maintain current First Aid certification.
- Follow required infection prevention and aseptic practices.
-
Why is the minimum age for practitioners 18?
The proposed minimum age is intended to establish a consistent standard for individuals who are independently providing body art services.
-
Will body art establishments need a license?
Yes. Every body art establishment operating in Larimer County will need a facility license issued by the Department. Licenses must be renewed annually and displayed publicly.
-
When and how will establishments and practitioners obtain the new licenses?
The Department will provide information about the application process, requirements, fees, and timing as the program is implemented.
-
How often will inspections occur?
The regulations allow the Department to inspect establishments at a frequency determined by the Department. The expected goal is routine inspections to verify compliance, with additional inspections conducted in response to complaints, follow-up needs, or public health concerns.
-
Will inspections be announced?
No, generally inspections are unannounced. Routine inspections may be conducted during normal business hours. Inspectors may also conduct complaint investigations and follow-up inspections as necessary. Inspectors understand that inspections must be done in a manner that is not disruptive to the operation.
-
Can inspectors enter active procedure areas?
The Department's intent is to conduct inspections in a manner that protects both public health and the rights of clients and practitioners. Generally, department staff will only enter a procedure area with the consent of the client, not the licensee.
-
What will inspectors look for?
Inspectors will evaluate compliance with every aspect of the regulations, including but not limited to:
- Handwashing washing and hand washing facilities
- Instrument sterilization procedures
- Sterilization records and spore testing
- Sharps disposal
- Client records and consent forms
- Artist training records
- Bloodborne pathogen protections
- Facility cleanliness and sanitation
- Required licenses and documentation.
-
Will inspection reports be public?
The Department anticipates making inspection results available to the public, similar to other public health inspection programs, such as restaurant inspections.
-
What if an establishment refuses an inspection?
Refusing entry or interfering with an inspection is a violation of the regulations and may result in enforcement action.
-
Will businesses be notified of required changes?
Yes. The Department will identify applicable requirements and communicate them to existing businesses before enforcement deadlines are established. The implementation process will provide businesses with information about what changes, if any, are required.
-
What is the compliance timeframe?
Existing establishments and practitioners will be provided a reasonable timeframe to address requirements that apply to them after the regulations are adopted. The Department will communicate the applicable timeframe as part of the implementation process.
-
Can a license be suspended or revoked?
Yes. Licenses may be suspended or revoked for serious or repeated violations, operating without a license, refusal of inspection, fraudulent applications, or conditions that pose a risk to public health.
-
What happens if an establishment is found out of compliance?
Most violations will likely result in education and a requirement to correct deficiencies within a specified timeframe. Follow-up inspections may be conducted to verify correction.
-
What are the penalties for violations?
The Department may assess penalties of up to $250 per violation per day, depending on the severity and duration of the violation and the risk posed to public health.
-
Can a practitioner be disciplined for an issue that is controlled by the establishment?
Enforcement will be based on the specific regulatory requirement and who is responsible for compliance. A practitioner would not automatically be responsible for an issue that is solely an establishment responsibility.
-
Will I be fined immediately if a violation is found during an inspection?
No. The primary goal of the Body Art Program is to protect public health through education, collaboration, and compliance. In most cases, inspectors will work with operators and artists to explain requirements, identify corrective actions, and provide a reasonable opportunity to address violations. However, enforcement action may occur immediately in certain situations, particularly when there is an imminent threat to public health or when an operator interferes with, obstructs, or refuses to allow an inspection.
-
What happens if a complaint is filed?
The Department may investigate complaints regarding sanitation, infections, injuries, licensing, or other potential violations. Additional inspections may be conducted as needed.
-
Can the Department close a facility immediately?
Yes. If an imminent health hazard exists that presents a significant threat to public health, the Department may order immediate corrective actions, including temporary closure of all or part of the facility until the hazard is corrected.
-
What is the difference between a violation by an establishment and a violation by an individual practitioner?
The regulations distinguish between requirements that apply to the establishment and those that apply to the individual practitioner. Enforcement will be based on the specific requirement and the party responsible for compliance.
-
Why is a handwashing sink required at each service or procedure station?
The requirement is intended to provide immediate access to handwashing where procedures are performed and reduce the risk of cross contamination.
-
How will the County determine what constitutes a procedure area, and does the sink requirement apply to each procedure room or each practitioner?
A procedure area is an area where tattooing, piercing, or another regulated body art procedure is performed. For existing facilities, the Department will review the facility layout and how the space is used to determine how the requirements apply and whether the intent of the regulation is being met.
-
What if an existing studio cannot reasonably install a sink at every station? Will existing studios be grandfathered?
Existing facilities and their current layouts will be evaluated based on the circumstances of the facility. If the existing setup adequately supports hand hygiene and prevents cross contamination, it is likely that no changes will be necessary.
-
If a room is used only for jewelry changes, does it need a handwashing sink?
That depends on whether the activity is considered a regulated body art procedure and how the room is being used. For existing facilities, the Department will review the activity and facility layout to determine whether the intent of the regulation is being met.
-
Can hand sanitizer or wipes be used instead of a required handwashing sink?
No. Hand sanitizer and wipes do not replace a required handwashing sink where handwashing is required.
-
Why is a mop or utility sink required? Could another cleaning method be used?
A designated utility sink provides an appropriate location for filling, cleaning, and disposing of wastewater. For existing facilities, the Department will review the cleaning procedures during inspections to determine if the intent of this requirement is being met.
-
Why is there an 80 square foot minimum procedure area, and how does this apply to existing studios?
The minimum area is intended to provide adequate space for safe procedures, equipment, movement, and separation of activities. This space requirement was identified as best practice in consultation with the body art industry. However, existing facilities will be reviewed based on their current layout and use, and if the existing space adequately meets the intent of the regulation, it is likely that no changes will be necessary.
-
Why are specific physical requirements being applied to existing businesses?
The requirements establish minimum public health and safety standards. For existing facilities, the Department will consider the existing layout and operation to determine whether the intent of the regulation is being met and whether any updates are necessary.
-
When is an ultrasonic cleaner required?
An ultrasonic cleaner is not required. If used, it must be separated from autoclaving areas and kept clean and in good working condition. The intent is to ensure reusable equipment that requires cleaning can be properly cleaned before sterilization.
-
Do ultrasonic cleaners and autoclaves need to be located in separate rooms?
The intent is to maintain separation between contaminated and clean processing areas and reduce cross contamination. They do not necessarily have to be in separate rooms if there is adequate space to avoid cross contamination.
-
How should equipment be moved between contaminated and clean areas without creating a contamination risk?
Clean and contaminated instruments should be transported in a manner that keeps them separated and prevents contamination. The regulations are intended to maintain separation throughout the cleaning and sterilization process.
-
If sterile instruments are single use, is an ultrasonic cleaner still required?
No. Ultrasonic cleaning applies to reusable instruments that are being cleaned and reprocessed.
-
What happens if a biological indicator test is positive?
A positive biological indicator indicates a potential sterilization failure and requires the facility to follow the applicable corrective action procedures. This may include evaluating the sterilizer, affected instruments, and subsequent testing.
-
Why is there a six month expiration period for sterilized packages?
There is no requirement to dispose of all sterilized packages within 6 months of manufacturing date. Single use items must be used in accordance with the manufacturer's instructions and, when an expiration date is provided by the manufacturer, must not be used beyond that date.
-
Can clients have water or other beverages during a procedure?
Eating or drinking by anyone is prohibited in the area where body art preparations or procedures are performed and any location where instruments or supplies are stored or cleaned, except for water in a sealable container.
-
Can beverages be kept in a designated area away from the procedure station?
Yes, a designated area may be appropriate if it is sufficiently separated from the procedure area and does not create a contamination risk.
-
Why does the County need injury or adverse event information when workers compensation already exists?
Workers compensation and public health reporting serve different purposes. Adverse event reporting allows the Department to identify and evaluate potential public health concerns associated with body art procedures.
-
Does every complaint or minor problem after a tattoo or piercing have to be reported?
No. Reporting applies to adverse events that meet the criteria established in the regulations, not routine healing or every minor complaint.
-
Does reporting an adverse event mean the practitioner is presumed to be responsible?
No. Reporting an adverse event does not establish that the practitioner caused the condition or violated the regulations. It allows the Department to determine whether further evaluation is appropriate.
-
Who investigates an alleged infection following a tattoo or piercing?
The Department will evaluate the information and determine whether further investigation is appropriate. The purpose is to determine whether a public health concern or regulatory violation exists.
-
How will the Health Department determine whether an infection was caused by the procedure or by poor aftercare?
The Department may consider the timing of symptoms, procedure practices, aftercare instructions, and other relevant information. A reported infection by itself does not establish the cause or responsibility.
-
Why does the regulation reference MedWatch?
MedWatch is an FDA reporting system. The Health Department's reporting requirements are separate and are intended to support local public health oversight.
-
How will ID information be protected?
Any retained client identification information should be stored securely and accessed only for appropriate purposes. Records should be maintained in a manner that protects the information from unauthorized access.
-
How will injury and adverse event information be used and protected?
Information will be collected, used, retained, and disclosed in accordance with applicable County policies and legal requirements.
-
Are service animals allowed in a procedure room?
Service animals are permitted as required by applicable disability access laws. Reasonable measures should be taken to keep the animal away from sterile supplies and the immediate procedure area when appropriate.
-
Does the regulation require records of every client interaction or only regulated procedures?
The regulations require documentation of the activities and information specifically identified in the regulations. They do not require documentation of every routine client interaction.
-
Are detailed records required for routine jewelry changes or other services?
That depends on whether the activity constitutes a regulated body art procedure and whether the regulations specifically require documentation for that activity.
-
Why are batch numbers, expiration dates, and information about packaged items required?
These records provide traceability for products and materials used during procedures. They can also assist with investigations if a public health concern arises.
-
What are the consent form requirements?
The proposed consent requirements are intended to ensure clients receive consistent information about the risks associated with body art procedures. Existing industry consent forms may be used when they contain the information required by the regulations.
-
What documentation is required for jewelry materials?
Documentation from the manufacturer or supplier may be used to demonstrate that jewelry meets the required material and quality standards.
-
Why is a copy of the client's identification required?
Where required, identification supports age verification and required client recordkeeping. It also helps document compliance with applicable licensing requirements.
-
How will client personal information be protected?
Client information must be maintained securely and handled in accordance with applicable privacy, confidentiality, and records requirements.
-
Why is a government-issued ID required?
The ID requirement is intended to help verify client identity and age and support accurate recordkeeping. Acceptable forms of identification and recordkeeping requirements will be established as part of program implementation.
-
Does the the Health Department require studios to use specific recordkeeping software?
No. Studios may use electronic or paper records as long as the required information is maintained and available for review.
-
What is regulated waste, and does every item with blood on it have to go into a red biohazard container?
No. Not every item with a small amount of blood is regulated waste. The determination depends on the characteristics of the waste and whether it is capable of releasing blood or other potentially infectious material.
-
How will regulated waste be handled?
The intent is to ensure regulated waste is properly managed and disposed of through an approved method. A sole proprietor may personally transport waste to an approved disposal facility when permitted under applicable requirements.
-
Can ordinary disposable items with a small amount of dried blood be placed in commercial trash?
If the material does not meet the definition of regulated waste, it may generally be disposed of as ordinary solid waste, subject to applicable requirements. A small drop of blood on a Q-tip is not considered a biohazard.
-
Are sharps handled differently?
Yes. Sharps require appropriate puncture resistant containers and disposal methods.
-
Are red biohazard containers required in bathrooms for feminine hygiene products?
No. Feminine hygiene products are not necessarily regulated waste simply because they may contain blood or other bodily fluids.
-
Can small studios use an alternative to an expensive regulated waste service?
Studios must use a disposal method that complies with applicable requirements. The regulations do not necessarily require use of one specific waste service provider.
-
Can 316L jewelry be used for a healed piercing if it does not meet the initial piercing standard?
The initial piercing requirements apply to jewelry used for initial piercings. Healed piercings may be treated differently unless another provision applies.
-
What are the requirements for piercings on minors?
The proposed regulations address consent and other requirements for minors, including requirements related to the provision of body art services to individuals under 18.
-
Why is there an age distinction for jewelry materials?
The proposed distinction is intended to address differences in the risks associated with jewelry materials and their use on younger clients.
-
What documentation is required for jewelry?
The intent is to verify that body jewelry meets the required material standards. Manufacturer certificates and digital records may be used to demonstrate compliance where appropriate.
-
Why does the regulation distinguish between titanium and 316L stainless steel?
The proposed standard identifies specific materials and standards considered appropriate for initial piercings. The distinction is based on the requirements established in the proposed regulations.
-
What does "mirror finish" mean for body jewelry?
A mirror finish refers to a smooth, highly polished surface that is free of defects, rough areas, or other characteristics that could damage tissue.
-
What about internally threaded and threadless jewelry?
Both types can be designed to minimize tissue damage when appropriately manufactured and finished. The requirements focus on the quality, finish, and safety of jewelry used for body art.
-
What is the practitioner expected to do with information from the medical questionnaire?
The questionnaire is intended to identify conditions or circumstances that may affect the safety of the procedure. It is not intended for practitioners to diagnose or treat medical conditions.
-
What is the purpose of the client health evaluation?
The purpose of the health evaluation is to identify information that may be relevant to safely providing a body art procedure. It is not intended to require artists to diagnose medical conditions.
-
Would conditions such as diabetes or high blood pressure automatically prevent someone from receiving body art?
Not necessarily. The information is intended to identify potential safety concerns and allow the practitioner to make an informed decision about proceeding.
-
Why ask whether a client has eaten within the previous four hours?
The question is intended to identify circumstances that may increase the likelihood of lightheadedness, fainting, or other difficulties during a procedure.
-
What are the ink tracking requirements?
The purpose of the ink tracking requirement is to provide traceability for products used during body art procedures if a safety concern or product issue arises. The requirement applies to products used in body art procedures and supports product traceability.
-
Why ask about communicable diseases if standard bloodborne pathogen precautions are already required?
Standard precautions are used with every client. Additional information may provide context relevant to safe procedures and public health oversight.
-
How should client health information be handled?
Client health information should be handled in a manner that protects the individual's privacy and limits access to those who need the information for the program or procedure. Records should be maintained securely and in accordance with applicable privacy requirements.
-
When are practitioners required to change gloves?
Gloves should be changed when they become contaminated or damaged and when moving between activities where contamination could occur.
-
Does wearing gloves alone satisfy the infection control requirements?
No. Gloves are only one part of infection control, and appropriate hand hygiene and glove changes are also required.
-
What are the requirements for grooming, nails and jewelry?
Hands should be kept clean, and hair should be pulled back when needed to help prevent contamination. Nails should be kept clean and trimmed. Jewelry should be limited as needed to facilitate proper handwashing and maintain clean working conditions.
-
Can an apprentice perform body art while working under a licensed studio or practitioner?
No, it is prohibited to operate as a body art establishment or body artist without first obtaining all necessary licenses and approvals from the Department.
-
Why can't an apprentice perform body art before completing the required training?
The training and supervision requirements are intended to ensure practitioners have the knowledge and skills necessary to perform procedures safely.
-
Why is 1,500 hours of apprenticeship experience required before applying for a license?
There is no 1,500-hour apprenticeship provision in the 9/16/26 proposed Larimer County regulations.
-
What will be included on the body artist licensing examination, and who developed the examination?
The examination is expected to address knowledge and competencies related to infection prevention, sanitation, safety, and other public health requirements. The Department will use examination materials from an approved and nationally recognized body art organization or other recognized professional source to assess the applicant’s knowledge of body art health and safety practices.
-
Will tattoo artists and piercers take the same examination?
Yes, it will be the same exam.
-
What happens if someone fails the examination?
Retesting and any applicable waiting period will follow the established licensing process.
-
Who will develop the written exam for body artists?
The purpose of the exam is to confirm that practitioners understand the health and safety requirements associated with providing body art services. The Department is still determining the specific exam content and administration process and intends to use recognized industry and industry association materials.
-
Why is First Aid and CPR certification required?
The requirement is intended to ensure practitioners have basic training to respond appropriately to an injury or other emergency that may occur during a procedure.
-
What are the First Aid and CPR requirements?
The intent is for practitioners to maintain current First Aid certification, with the certification period determined by the issuing organization.
-
Who will pay for First Aid and CPR certification?
The cost would generally be the responsibility of the practitioner or establishment as applicable
-
Does the requirement apply to every practitioner, including independent contractors?
Yes, it applies to everyone who holds or pursues a body artist license.
-
Does a prior felony or misdemeanor automatically disqualify someone from obtaining a body artist license?
Not necessarily. An applicant with a felony conviction will be evaluated based on the nature of the felony and the length of time that has passed since the conviction.
-
Is there a formal board or committee of body art professionals that makes licensing decisions?
The proposed process does not establish a separate industry licensing board. Regulatory authority remains with the Department and Board of Health as provided by law.
-
Will body artists have opportunities to provide input before the regulations are adopted?
Yes. Body artists and other stakeholders have opportunities to review the proposal and provide comments through the public process.
-
Why are individual practitioners responsible for licensing or certification costs?
Licensing and qualification requirements apply to individual practitioners. The allocation of costs is determined by the applicable licensing and fee structure. This is consistent with all other professional licenses issued by the department.
-
What costs will be the responsibility of the establishment versus the individual practitioner?
This will need to be decided between the establishment and the body artist.
-
Is the intent to make it more difficult or expensive to become a tattoo artist?
No. The purpose of the regulations is to establish minimum public health and safety standards for body art.
-
How will the the Health Department balance public health requirements with the costs faced by small businesses and independent practitioners?
The goal is to establish appropriate public health and safety standards while considering practical and financial impacts. Requirements are focused on areas such as infection prevention, sanitation, sterilization, waste handling, competency, and recordkeeping.
-
Why would a studio be required to purchase equipment it does not use?
Equipment requirements are intended to apply to processes that are actually performed. For example, cleaning and reprocessing equipment requirements apply when reusable instruments are being cleaned and reprocessed. The department will not require the purchase of equipment that is not needed to comply with the regulations.
-
What is the lighting requirement?
At least one hundred (100) foot candles of artificial light shall be provided at the level where body art procedures are performed and in instrument cleaning and sterilization areas. The intent is to ensure adequate lighting for safe and sanitary body art procedures and cleaning activities.
-
Who will conduct inspections, and what qualifications will inspectors have?
Authorized County personnel will conduct inspections using the adopted regulations, policies and procedures established based on best practices, and thorough training protocols.
-
How will the County ensure inspectors understand tattooing and piercing practices?
Inspectors will receive training and use the adopted regulations, inspection procedures, and applicable guidance. Input from body art professionals can also help identify practical issues related to implementation and inspection.
-
How will the Health Department ensure inspectors interpret the regulations consistently?
The Department will use adopted regulations, inspection procedures, training, and guidance to support consistent application. Quality assurance measures will be implemented by program managers that facilitate consistency.
-
Will inspectors evaluate artistic techniques or tell artists how to tattoo or pierce?
No. Inspections will focus on public health, sanitation, infection prevention, sterilization, safety, and regulatory compliance rather than artistic style or creative technique
-
Who will determine which businesses and artists are licensed, and how will conflicts of interest be addressed?
LCDHE staff will make licensing decisions based on the adopted regulations and public health requirements. Industry experience is valuable and will help inform the program, but industry representatives will not make licensing decisions. Anyone involved in the regulatory process would also be expected to follow applicable County conflict of interest requirements.
-
Why are some requirements more specific than practices already used by established studios?
The regulations establish consistent minimum public health and safety standards across the industry. For existing facilities, the Department will consider the facility's current practices and determine whether the intent of the regulation is already being met and whether any changes are necessary.
-
You mentioned a slideshow with details about a survey the Health Department did in 2023. Can we see that?
Sure, the slide set that was presented to the Board of Health after a survey done in 2023 can be viewed here.
