Calls to regulate body piercings trade
The health minister admitted that while the number of premises offering piercings had greatly increased, there was still no legislation specifically regulating the trade. Businesses must only comply with the general public health and safety legislation that applies to any business, though they could be examined by a medical officer or environmental health officer if there was a suspected case of an infectious disease or a probable source of infection.
“The risks associated with body piercing can range from acute infection to allergic reactions,” he said. “There is also a risk of hepatitis B and C and HIV with all piercing. Oral piercings pose particular risks which include tooth damage, airway obstruction, gum swelling, and injury.”
