Michigan tattoo waiver requirements
This guide outlines the waiver requirements that tattoo artists in Michigan are required to collect and retain for compliance with state body art rules.
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Tattoo waiver requirements in Michigan
According to the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services, Body Art Rules, your tattoo waiver and permanent records must include the following:
Client info
Records must include the client’s full identifying and contact information.
Procedure date
The date the tattoo procedure was performed.
Tattoo details
Records must describe the tattoo, including the design and the location on the body.
Tattoo artist information
The name of the body art technician who performed the tattoo must be recorded.
Facility license verification
The record must confirm the tattoo was performed at a body art facility licensed by the State of Michigan. Clients must be informed that they may verify the facility’s license status through the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services Body Art Program website http://www.michigan.gov/bodyart before receiving a tattoo.
Health questionnaire
Clients must complete a health questionnaire disclosing conditions that may affect the tattooing process or healing.
Physician consultation confirmation
If a physician consultation is recommended or required by the tattoo artist, the client must confirm whether that consultation occurred.
Aftercare instructions
Written tattoo aftercare instructions must be provided and documented.
Informed consent
Clients must acknowledge the risks and possible consequences associated with tattooing before the procedure.
Complaint notice
Records must include instructions explaining how a client may file a complaint regarding compliance with Michigan body art rules.
Record retention period
Tattoo records must be retained for a minimum of three years.
Source
Tattoo waiver and recordkeeping requirements in Michigan are defined by the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services under the Michigan Body Art Rules.
Michigan tattoo waiver recap on Instagram
We also shared a Michigan tattoo waiver overview on Instagram. Check the post for a quick visual breakdown of the key compliance points artists need to know.
Video walkthrough: Michigan tattoo waiver requirements
Frequently asked questions
Do tattoo studios in Michigan need clients to sign a consent form?
Yes. Before performing a tattoo procedure, Michigan body art facilities must provide clients with a body art record and consent form. The form must include an informed consent statement confirming that the client has received the required disclosures, aftercare instructions, and other required documentation, and it must be signed by the client or their legal guardian if applicable.
Can tattoo consent forms be stored digitally in Michigan?
Yes. Michigan permits electronic records, provided they are password protected and access is limited to authorized individuals. Digital records must also comply with the state’s record retention and confidentiality requirements.
Are tattoo studios in Michigan required to provide aftercare instructions?
Yes. Before beginning a procedure, tattoo studios must provide department-approved aftercare instructions, including guidance on when the client should seek medical attention if necessary.
Are technicians required to refuse service in certain situations?
Yes. A body art technician must refuse service to anyone showing signs of being under the influence of alcohol or controlled substances.
Are topical anesthetics allowed before tattooing?
Topical anesthetics or products containing anesthetic ingredients may not be used unless prescribed by a licensed physician. Documentation of the prescription must be included in the client record.
What happens to records if a shop closes or is sold?
Closed facilities must still retain records securely for three years. If the business is sold or transferred, records must either be transferred appropriately or destroyed in compliance with the rules.
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