Making tattoos is an art. However as cool as they look, creating them also comes with huge responsibility, both health and safety-wise. One of the basics of running a tattoo studio is to make sure that you keep your space tidy and follow the rules. This also includes taking proper measures that align with Chicago disposal laws for your tattoo needles.
So if you're running a tattoo studio or plan on opening one in Chicago, it's important to learn the proper disposal methods for needles and what regulations are set by the state for them. Fortunately for you, we cover just about everything you need to know, from disposal methods to tips that can make sure your business stays compliant with the laws. When you're done with your tattoo, you're left with a used needle, which you're probably thinking of throwing in with the regular trash. This mistake is made on a daily basis by several tattoo studios. Used needles are considered sharp waste and are also biohazardous. Putting them in with the regular waste can pose risks to both the environment and the people.
Here’s what can go wrong;
You can get into trouble with law and be required to pay massive fines for irresponsible waste handling.
Injuries can occur during waste handling to both the workers and your studio staff.
HIV and other diseases can spread through dirty needles.
Lastly, depending on the offense, you can face some serious blowback, like getting your business license suspended.
To make things even easier for you, below are some key rules to follow for a safe disposal of tattoo needles in Chicago. These rules are set by the Illinois Environmental Protection Agency (IEPA) and are obligatory for the citizens.
Any used tattoo needles should be stored in sharps containers that are leak and spill-proof.
These containers must be approved for storage and labeled clearly as biohazards.
Always consult licensed professionals or a certified waste disposal company to pick up the waste from your studio.
Don't throw the needles and other sharps in with the regular waste.
Keep in mind that these are obligatory, and if you fail to follow them if you don't want to pay hefty fines.
Steps For Safe Disposal Of Tattoo Needles In Chicago
We have broken down the whole process into simple steps so you can understand how exactly one can get rid of the tattoo needles in Chicago in a way that aligns with local law.
Stop using those regular plastic containers from Dollar Tree. You need special storage containers that are made specifically for sharps waste. These have hard and thick plastic, so there is no chance of punctures. Also, make sure the lid snaps on tightly. Lastly, label it as biohazard so your staff knows it's harmful waste and to set it apart from the regular waste.
Life hack: If you want to make things easier, make sure there is a sharps container at every station for your tattoo artist.
Don't keep needles in your workplace for too long. As soon as you're done using the needle, throw it in the designated container. Don't be lazy and leave the needles around. This can cause accidental injuries to your artists and clients.
Tattoo needles need careful disposal that aligns with Chicago laws. Companies like TriHaz and Stericycle, which are certified and reliable, should be contacted for proper waste disposal. These providers do all the hard work for you, from picking up to safely disposing of them. You will also get complete paperwork so you can have proof of safe disposal when needed.
Tip: If you are a small business, you can always utilize the mail-back programs. These allow you to parcel your biohazard waste to a treatment facility directly, making the whole process super affordable.
If you have hired a good company to take care of your waste, then they also provide you with all the documentation of the process, also called a waste manifest. These documents should be kept safe because they might be required during a health inspection. So if you have all the proof of safe waste disposal, you can save yourself from heavy fines.
It's important that your staff is educated on sharps waste and the proper way to store them. Also let them know where the storage is and how they can get rid of the needles safely. In case of an accidental prick, your staff should know how to handle the situation.
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