Checklist For Choosing A Piercer

So you want to get pierced. If you value your well being, do your homework and choose your piercer carefully. The popularity of piercing has brought an abundance of frighteningly irresponsible butchers into the piercing business, and contrary to popular opinion, most counties do not yet regulate the piercing industry appropriately. Consider carefully before you trust your body to just anyone. Familiarise yourself with the Piercee's Bill of Rights.

- Has a professional, open attitude?		Yes				No
- Studio is clean and well-lit?		Yes				No
- Piercing is done in a special, separate room?		Yes				No
- Has an autoclave and an ultrasonic cleaner?		Yes				No
- Can prove autoclave is spore tested monthly?		Yes				No
- Uses sterile, disposable piercing needles?		Yes				No
- Uses individually sterilised and bagged tools?		Yes				No
- Uses fresh latex gloves with every client?		Yes				No
- Complies with all licensing requirements?		Yes				No
- Uses titanium, implant grade steel, niobium or other appropriate piercing jewellery?		Yes				No

- Offers to show you the studio, including sterilisation area?		Yes				No
- Is prepared to offer on-going assistance and follow-up with your new piercing?		Yes				No
- Has on-hand a portfolio of well-healed, successful and attractive piercings that s/he has done?		Yes				No
- Changes gloves and disinfects surfaces frequently, avoiding cross-contamination?		Yes				No

- Has a 'know-it-all', arrogant demeanor?		Yes				No
- Claims to be 'certified', 'licensed' or 'approved'?		Yes				No
- Seems more interested in your money than your safety?		Yes				No
- Base of operation is a van, tent or home basement?		Yes				No
- Uses an ear piercing gun, especially for piercings other than earlobes?		Yes				No
- Uses earrings in body piercings?		Yes				No
- Piercing is done in the same room as hair-styling or other services?		Yes				No
- 'Sterilises' tools in a liquid disinfectant?		Yes				No
- Tools laid in the open air?		Yes				No