Skin penetration procedures include any of the following procedures, unless carried out in the practice of a registered health professional:

• acupuncture
• tattooing
• ear piercing
• hair removal (eg. waxing or electrolysis)
• any other procedure that involves skin penetration (eg. beauty treatment that involves the deliberate removal of skin)
• any procedure prescribed by the regulations (eg. colonic lavage).

Registered health professionals include medical practitioners, dentists, chiropractors, osteopaths, dental technicians, nurses, optical dispensers, optometrists, pharmacists, physiotherapists, podiatrists and psychologists. 

Routine Inspection Program

Council Environmental Health Officers carry out random inspections of skin penetration premises to ensure that appropriate infection control practices are being implemented.

Fees are charged for the inspections in accordance with Section 608 of the Local Government Act 1993.

See the current fees and charges. 

Regulations

All skin penetration premises and operators must also comply with the Public Health (Skin Penetration) Regulation 2000.

Registration

All skin penetration premises must be registered with Council before trading commences. To register a skin penetration premises complete and submit a Registration of Business Details form.

Resources 

Codes and guidelines from the NSW Health website:

• Skin Penetration Guidelines
• Skin Penetration Code of Best Practice

Find out more

For further information contact Council’s Customer Service Centre on 9952 8222.