Environmental Health - Skin Penetration

Skin Penetration Business Notification It is a requirement that all skin penetration operators register their business details with their local Council prior to carrying out any procedures. Notify your skin penetration business online (no charge).

The Public Health Act 1991 defines "skin penetration" as any of the following procedures including acupuncture, tattooing, ear piercing, hair removal and any other procedure (whether medical or not) that involves skin penetration or those prescribed by the regulations, but does not include:

• a procedure carried out in the practice of medicine or dentistry by a registered medical practitioner, a registered dentist, or a person acting under the direction or supervision of such a medical practitioner or dentist
• any other procedure prescribed by the regulations

Some procedures, if not undertaken correctly, present a risk for disease transmission to both clients and operators. Therefore, it is mandatory for all skin penetration operators and premises to comply with the public health standards.

Any new skin penetration premises must have development approval.  You are recommended to check with Council’s Planning Section prior to undertaking any works or starting the business.

Council's Environmental Health Officers routinely inspect hairdressing salons, beauty salons and premises that carry out skin penetration procedures to check businesses are complying with the relevant public health standards.

• Request a Service - Unhealthy Conditions

Public Health Standards

The correct procedures and hygiene requirements for carrying out skin penetration are outlined in the following legislation and guidelines.

• Public Health (Skin Penetration) Regulation 2000
• Public Health Act 1991 – Section 51 (Skin Penetration Procedures)
• Skin Penetration Guidelines
• Skin Penetration Code of Best Practice

Contact Council

Request a Service - Unhealthy Conditions or call Compliance Services on 9942 2111.

The personal information that you provide is confidential and will not be disclosed without your consent.

Useful Links

• NSW Health - body decoration and grooming
• Hair and Beauty Salons
• Warringah Council's Compliance and Enforcement Policy
• NSW Health Fact Sheets on Skin Penetration Procedures

Acupuncture

Beauty Treatments (inc translations)
Body Piercing
Colonic Lavage
Cosmetic Enhancement (inc translations)

Ear Piercing

Manicure and Pedicure Treatments (inc translations)
Nose Piercing
Tattooing