Anyone thinking of having a tattoo or body piercing done is being urged to seriously consider the possible risks involved and, if they decide to go ahead, ensure they have the procedure done by a licensed professional who is using the correct equipment and safeguards.

Banners to highlight the dangers of not following this advice have been created by the Department of Health as part of an Island-wide awareness campaign to educate people about the potential hazards of having such permanent and semi-permanent body adornments.

The banners are being displayed at the Botanical Gardens.

?The main thing is the risk with the procedures, which can lead to blood borne pathogens such as Hepatitis B and C and HIV. There can also be skin disorders, scarring and allergic reactions from the dyes used in tattoos or from the body piercing metals,? explained environmental health officer Andrew Kennedy.

Because of the increasing popularity of tattoos and body piercing Government introduced regulations in 2001 covering body piercing, electrolysis and tattooing. Members of the public can check these on the Bermuda Laws Internet website, www.bermudalaws.bm.

Mr. Kennedy strongly recommends anyone considering having such body art first check with the regulations so they know what to look for when they go into a tattoo or body piercing salon as far as sterile equipment and hygienic procedures are concerned.

In Bermuda there are three licensed operators, which are inspected twice a year by the health department to check that they comply with the regulations. In addition the staff who carry out the procedures must renew their certification each year.

As part of the awareness campaign this month the operators have been given an infection control course to improve their knowledge of the potential dangers.

Mr. Kennedy said: ?Tattooing and body piercing has become more and more mainstream and acceptable amongst the population. A lot of people have jumped on the bandwagon, but there are people who do not think about the risk involved and the long term ramifications which exist with the relatively permanent procedures.?

He added: ?We also need to protect minors. Under the age of 18 there is a requirement that this group of people have to have a letter of consent from a parent and that parent must be in the establishment when the procedure takes place.?

Mr. Kennedy said infections can occur with poor aftercare, and that is why the public should get good information beforehand. The Health Department has produced its own advisory leaflet which is available from its offices in Point Finger Road and from the clinic on Victoria Street.