Certain risks do exist if instruments contaminated with blood are either not sterilized or disinfected or are used inappropriately between clients. It is recommended that instruments that are intended to penetrate the skin be used once, then disposed of or thoroughly cleaned and sterilized between clients.

Personal service workers who do tattooing or body piercing should be educated about how to prevent transmission of blood-borne infections (e.g., HBV, HCV, or HIV) are transmitted and take precautions in their settings.

If you are considering getting a tattoo or having your body pierced, ask staff at the establishment what procedures they use to prevent the spread of blood-borne infections, such as the hepatitis B virus.