Concern in Hartlepool about several backstreet tattooists operating there.

“Several investigations have recently been carried out in Hartlepool into unregistered tattoo and piercing businesses operating out of private homes.

“Those wanting body art done are now being warned that if they use the cheap firms they risk being infected with a host of viruses and skin conditions.

“And anyone who thinks they have been under the needle of an unregistered artist are being urged to visit their doctors for blood tests.

“When tattooists or body-piercers don’t use sterile equipment there is a risk that infections can pass from one client to another. These can range from skin infections to serious blood-borne viruses, including HIV and hepatitis B and C.

Anyone who has had a tattoo in the past from an unregistered tattooist and is concerned should contact their GP who will be able to offer tests for blood-borne viruses.

Anyone who is considering having a tattoo is urged to make sure they use someone who is properly registered. As tempting as it might be to have it done cheaply, it’s simply not worth the risk.

It is highly unlikely that those offering these unlicensed tattoos will be so careful to use sharps bins for the disposal of used needles. If they are changed between ‘clients’ then needles are likely to be placed into black domestic waste sacks, into recycling bins or simply dumped at some remote location in an attempt to hide this illegal activity from regulators. Either way, waste handlers are placed at substantially increased risk.