When thinking about the kinds of places that generate medical waste, a tattoo shop might not be the first place that comes to mind. But even though it’s a somewhat non-traditional, unconventional practice, a tattoo shop falls under the same rules and regulations as everyone else (medical facilities) – after all, these artists use a needle for a paintbrush. Any item that comes into contact with bodily fluids (such as blood, mucus, plasma, semen, etc) that cannot be sterilized needs to be disposed of as regulated medical waste. Tattoo needles, for example, definitely fit the bill. If not disposed of properly, this kind of hazardous waste can be very harmful to others and the environment – and of course, it’s also illegal.
Needles, whether from a tattoo shop or a dentist’s office, should always share the same final resting place: an approved sharps container. When it’s full, that sharps container needs to be disposed of promptly – and with safety and regulatory compliance in mind.
Below is a list of “other” regulated medical waste that is typically generated by tattoo shops which also needs proper storage and disposal:
- Protective gloves
- Face masks
- Cotton swabs
- Ink caps
- Paper towels
- Protective covers
- Leftover ointment
BioSecure, with our expertise, knowledge and government regulation proficiencies can assist your shop with the proper handling, storage and final disposal of any SHARPS and Regulated Medical Waste items. It’s a complicated world out there, OSHA and EPA regulations are ever-changing. Don’t stress, we are here to help. Please call us today for an FREE, all-inclusive consultation. We provide excellent service, friendly customer interactions, and we offer the right VALUE/PRICE perspective. We can assist you with all of your hazardous and medical waste concerns (including tattoo waste), as well as advise you on your specific situation.