Which personal protective equipment should be worn during all tattooing or piercing procedures?

• A. Clean gloves, disposable gown/apron, eye protection if risk of splashing, and a mask if required.
• B. Only gloves are necessary.
• C. No PPE is required in a private studio.
• D. Goggles without gloves.

Answer: (A)

Wearing protective equipment for every tattooing or piercing procedure is about preventing the spread of bloodborne pathogens and keeping both the client and the artist safe. The full set includes clean gloves, a disposable gown or apron, eye protection if there’s a risk of splashing, and a mask if required by the situation. Gloves create a barrier against blood and body fluids; a gown or apron protects clothing and skin from splashes; eye protection stops fluids from reaching the eyes; and a mask helps when there’s potential for droplets or spray in the air. Relying on gloves alone leaves other entry points unprotected, and skipping PPE entirely or using only goggles still leaves hands exposed and cross-contamination possible. So the complete PPE combination is the appropriate standard for all procedures, used in conjunction with proper hand hygiene and change between clients.