Tattoo Parlour Checklist: What Needs Testing and Tagging
May 30, 2025
Running a successful tattoo parlour requires more than just artistic talent and a loyal clientele; it demands strict adherence to safety and compliance standards, particularly in electrical safety. Experts at ETCS know that ensuring your studio’s equipment is regularly tested and tagged is a legal obligation and a critical component of maintaining a safe environment. In this guide, we will discuss the specifics of what equipment within a tattoo parlour needs to be tested and tagged.
By the end of this article, you’ll have a clear checklist to ensure your tattoo parlour meets all electrical protection requirements, keeping your business running smoothly and safely. Let’s get started!
"Test and tag" refers to the process of inspecting and testing electrical equipment to ensure it is safe for use. This process involves two key components: testing the equipment for electrical safety and tagging it to indicate its test status. It demands checking for electrical faults, inspecting insulation, and ensuring safety switches work properly. Once tested, a tag is affixed to the equipment, detailing information such as the date of the test, the next scheduled test date, and the person or company that conducted the test.
Tattoo studios are environments where customers and staff are in close contact with various electrical devices, such as power supplies and sterilisation equipment. Ensuring these devices are safe is important to preventing electrical accidents, which could lead to injuries or even fatalities. Moreover, maintaining a high standard of electrical protection is part of demonstrating a commitment to providing a safe environment, thereby enhancing the studio's reputation and trustworthiness.
Failing to adhere to regulations can result in penalties or even the closure of the business. Therefore, regular test and tag procedures are essential in minimising risks and fulfilling legal obligations.
The AS/NZS 3760 standard provides a comprehensive framework for the in-service safety inspection and testing of electrical equipment. It outlines the required procedures for testing, the qualifications needed by the personnel conducting the tests, and the frequency of testing for different types of equipment and environments.
The standard stipulates that testing should be conducted by a competent person who is either a licensed electrician or someone who has undergone relevant training. The procedures outlined in AS/NZS 3760 ensure that all potential electrical hazards are identified and mitigated, and that any equipment posing a risk is either repaired or removed from service.
The frequency of testing and tagging equipment in tattoo parlours is influenced by several factors, including the environment in which the equipment is used and the nature of its use. According to the AS/NZS 3760 standard, environments that are considered hostile require more frequent testing.
Typically, in tattoo studios, electrical equipment should undergo test and tag procedures every 6 to 12 months. Equipment that is frequently moved or subjected to harsh conditions may require testing closer to the 6-month interval, whereas equipment in more stable and less hazardous settings might be tested every 12 months. Businesses must assess their environment and usage patterns to determine the most appropriate testing frequency.
Tattoo parlour owners know that hygiene and artistic skill aren’t the only things your clients trust you with—every piece of equipment in your studio must be electrically safe, too. Testing and tagging isn’t just an administrative chore; it’s a vital safeguard against shocks, fires and costly downtime. Here’s a guide on the equipment that requires regular testing and tagging.
Tattoo machines are the core tools of your trade, and because they operate with precision and rely on electricity, they must be regularly tested and tagged to ensure safety and reliability. Whether you use coil or rotary machines, their electrical cords, power units, and foot pedals are subject to wear over time, especially in a fast-paced studio environment.
Cleaning and sterilisation equipment play a role in maintaining hygiene standards in any tattoo parlour. Since these devices operate in heat and moisture, they must be tested and tagged regularly to ensure they remain safe and functional.
While the spotlight in a tattoo parlour is often on the studio floor, the office and reception area also contain essential electrical equipment that must be included in your testing and tagging programme. These items may not seem high-risk, but they're used daily and can silently deteriorate.
Beyond the specialised tattooing and sterilisation tools, your studio likely contains a range of everyday appliances that contribute to comfort, cleanliness, and functionality. These general studio appliances are just as important to test and tag, especially since they often operate in high-traffic areas where cords can be twisted, stepped on, or exposed to moisture.
The break room and utility areas in a tattoo parlour may be out of sight from clients, but they’re essential to staff wellbeing and daily operations. These areas often contain electrical appliances that, if overlooked, can pose just as much risk as equipment in the main studio. Because these devices are used regularly and sometimes casually, they are prone to wear, spills, and accidental misuse.
When running a tattoo parlour, ensuring safety is a crucial aspect of maintaining a safe and compliant workspace. While many electrical devices require regular testing and tagging, there are certain exceptions. Understanding what doesn’t need to be tested can help streamline your efforts and reduce unnecessary costs. Below are some categories of equipment that typically do not require testing and tagging.
Devices that operate solely on batteries and do not connect to mains power for charging are generally exempt from testing and tagging requirements. Examples of such devices in a tattoo parlour may include battery-powered tattoo machines, wireless lighting fixtures, or handheld tools that run on replaceable batteries. Since these devices do not interact with the building's electrical system through a plug, they pose a minimal risk of electrical faults that could affect the broader electrical infrastructure.
While testing and tagging aren't required, it's important to maintain these devices properly. Regularly check for any signs of wear, damage, or corrosion on battery terminals, and replace batteries according to the manufacturer's recommendations. Keeping a maintenance log can help track the condition and performance of these devices over time.
Brand-new equipment is typically exempt from testing and tagging until it is first used. This initial exemption is based on the assumption that new equipment arrives in a safe condition, compliant with the latest safety standards. For tattoo parlours, this can include new tattoo machines, sterilisers, or lighting equipment.
Despite the general exemption, it is essential to verify your specific testing and tagging policy or any contractual obligations you may have with clients or property managers. Some insurance policies or service agreements may stipulate different requirements for new equipment. Additionally, it is a good practice to visually inspect new devices upon receipt for any visible signs of damage incurred during shipping.
Permanently wired appliances are those connected directly to the electrical system without the use of a plug and socket. These do not require regular testing and tagging because they are considered part of the fixed installation. In a tattoo parlour, this might include built-in ventilation systems or hardwired lighting fixtures.
Although these appliances are exempt from testing and tagging, they should still undergo regular maintenance checks by a qualified electrician to ensure they function safely. It's also important to monitor for any changes in performance or efficiency, as these could indicate underlying issues that need addressing.
Maintaining compliance with electrical precaution regulations is crucial for any tattoo parlour. Keeping thorough records and ensuring that all equipment is regularly tested and tagged not only ensures safety but also demonstrates a commitment to industry standards. Here’s how to effectively manage your testing and tagging process.
A test and tag logbook is an essential document that serves as a comprehensive record of all electrical equipment testing and maintenance activities. It should include details such as:
Maintaining a detailed logbook helps in tracking the condition of each piece of equipment, aids in the swift identification of items due for re-testing, and serves as valuable evidence during audits or inspections by regulatory bodies.
Once equipment has been tested, it is crucial to ensure that tags are attached, visible, and legible. These tags should include:
Keeping tags up to date is vital for ensuring safety. Outdated or missing tags can lead to non-compliance issues and potentially hazardous situations if faulty equipment is unknowingly used.
When it comes to testing and tagging, one key decision to face is whether to hire a qualified technician or handle the process in-house. Each option comes with its own responsibilities, benefits, and risks. Here are the factors you need to consider:
Hiring a professional ensures that the testing is conducted by someone with the necessary qualifications and experience. Technicians typically have access to the latest testing equipment and are up to date with standards. This option can save time and provide peace of mind, especially if your staff lacks the necessary training.
If you choose to conduct in-house testing, the individual responsible must be properly trained and certified. This person should understand the regulations, know how to use testing equipment, and be able to identify and document faults accurately. While this approach might be more cost-effective in the long run, it requires an initial investment in training and equipment.
In conclusion, electrical safety in a tattoo parlour is essential for protecting your staff, clients, and reputation. By understanding your obligations under AS/NZS 3760 and testing your equipment regularly, you minimise risk and build trust. Keep accurate records, stay on schedule with re-tests, and decide whether hiring a technician or training in-house suits your setup best. A safe studio is a successful one.
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