You will need to notify the council if you intend to undertake any skin penetration procedures. These procedures include acupuncture, tattooing, ear-piercing, hair removal and any other procedure (whether medical or not) that involves skin penetration such as body piercing, hair removal using wax or electrolysis, cosmetic enhancement and semi-permanent make-up, and any beauty treatment which involves the deliberate penetration or removal of the skin.
It does not include a procedure carried out in the practice of a registered medical practitioner, dentist, chiropractor, osteopath, dental technician, nurse, optical dispenser, optometrist, pharmacy, physiotherapist, podiatrist or psychologist. Similarly, it does not include a procedure carried out by a person acting under the direction or supervision of such a professional where the procedure is carried out as part of that professional practice. These professionals have their own legislation and infection control guidelines.
Procedures carried out by barbers and hairdressers, and procedures where skin penetration is not intended as part of the process are also not considered to be skin penetration procedures. However, at times these professions will be required to implement infection control practices when skin is accidentally cut, punctured or penetrated.
