Regulations for Skin Penetration Premises
Skin penetration procedures include any process involving the piercing, cutting, puncturing, tearing or shaving of the skin or mucous membrane or conjunctiva of the eye.
For an application to establish a skin penetration premise to be considered, a completed application form (see sidebar) must be submitted to the City’s Environmental Health Services together with the following:
1. A plan showing:
- the location of all associated basins, (troughs and hand-basins) supplied with hot and cold water;
- all floor and wall finishes i.e. non-slip;
- all fixtures and fittings and their associated finishes; and
- the location and number of work stations;
2. A list of all the procedures to be undertaken on the premises including (but not limited to) tattooing, piercing, waxing and shaving.
3. $116.00 non-refundable Environmental Health Services application fee.
Upon receipt of this application, an Environmental Health Officer will assess compliance with the requirements of the Code of Practice for Skin Penetration Procedures.
An Environmental Health Officer will then contact you to discuss your application, arrange an inspection of the skin penetration area and assess your knowledge of the Code. If the Environmental Health Officer is satisfied with your premises, an approval will be granted subject to conditions.
Code of Practice
The Health (Skin Penetration Procedure) Regulations 1998 adopts the Code of Practice for Skin Penetration Procedures. As such, this Code of Practice is the City’s standard in relation to skin penetration practices and premises. Please refer to a copy of this Code on the Department of Health website.
Under the Regulations, the owner of an establishment must notify the local authority prior to construction, fit out or operation of a skin penetration premise and must also ensure the establishment and procedures comply with the Code.
Further requirements for home based businesses
In addition to the above approval with Environmental Health Services, Planning Approval from the City for a home business is required to operate a business from a residential dwelling.
Planning Approval can be sought by completing an Application for Approval to Commence Development Form - MRS Form 1. Enquiries concerning this matter and any fees involved should be referred to the City’s Planning Team - T: 9400 4961.
