The use of disposable barrier films to wrap tattoo machines, power supplies, and clip cords is a universal practice in professional tattoo studios. This procedure is not merely a formality but a foundational element of infection control in an environment where skin is intentionally broken. The primary function of this wrapping is to maintain a sterile field around all non-disposable equipment and ensure the safety of every client. It creates a physical shield, separating potentially contaminated surfaces from the clean work area and the person being tattooed.
The Primary Goal: Preventing Cross-Contamination
Cross-contamination is the unintended transfer of harmful microorganisms, such as bacteria or viruses, from one person or object to another. This risk is inherent in the tattooing process, which involves generating open wounds and exposing blood and other bodily fluids. Any item touched by the artist during a session—including the machine, connecting cords, and power units—can become contaminated with pathogens.
Since these tools are non-disposable, they must be completely isolated from the working area to prevent the spread of infectious material. An unwrapped surface could transfer pathogens to the next client, even if the artist changes gloves. Wrapping establishes a single-use safety layer that is discarded immediately after the session, ensuring the environment is reset to a sterile condition for every subsequent procedure.
Protecting the Client from Biological Risks
Wrapping tattoo equipment functions as a direct barrier against the transmission of bloodborne pathogens that can cause serious illnesses. The tattooing process involves contact with blood, plasma, and other fluids that may carry viruses like Hepatitis B (HBV), Hepatitis C (HCV), and Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV). If a machine is not wrapped, these pathogens could remain on the housing or grip from a previous client, even after a routine surface wipe-down.
The high-speed movement of the needle generates a fine aerosol, causing microscopic droplets of ink and bodily fluids to splash onto the machine and surrounding surfaces. The barrier film seals the equipment, preventing contact between these infectious aerosols and the reusable components. This separation ensures the artist cannot inadvertently transfer pathogens to the client’s skin or the new wound after touching the machine.
Protecting the Tattoo Equipment
Beyond client safety, wrapping plays a significant role in maintaining the integrity and function of the tools used by the artist. Tattoo machines, whether coil or rotary models, contain sensitive electrical components and moving parts not designed to be submerged or saturated with liquids. Ink, blood, and cleaning solutions are corrosive and can easily seep into the motor housing or electrical connections of an unwrapped machine.
Exposure to these fluids can quickly cause internal corrosion, leading to mechanical malfunction and shortening the equipment’s lifespan. Furthermore, once bodily fluids enter the internal components, the machine becomes impossible to truly sterilize using standard surface disinfectants. The barrier wrap ensures the machine remains physically clean and dry throughout the session, preventing equipment damage or deep contamination.
Essential Barrier Materials and Setup
A variety of specialized, single-use products are utilized to create a comprehensive barrier setup for all equipment. These materials include:
- Custom-made plastic machine bags or sleeves that slide over the tattoo machine, covering the main body and grip area while allowing for necessary adjustments.
- Elongated plastic tubing, specifically called cord covers, used to cover clip cords and power supply cords which are difficult to disinfect.
- Adhesive barrier film, a thin, medical-grade plastic sheeting, used for high-contact surfaces like the power supply unit or portions of the work tray.
- Cohesive grip tape or medical wraps, often applied over the machine’s grip for comfort and improved handling after the machine is wrapped.
Crucially, every barrier item used during the session is immediately removed and disposed of as biohazardous waste upon completion of the tattoo.
Industry Protocols and Regulatory Compliance
The practice of wrapping equipment is a mandatory component of professional conduct in the tattoo industry, not simply a matter of preference. Local health departments and public health organizations universally require disposable barriers to uphold stringent public health standards. These regulations dictate that all surfaces and equipment that may come into contact with blood or potentially infectious materials must be covered and disposed of after each use.
Occupational safety guidelines, such as those established by OSHA, mandate that artists adhere to Universal Precautions. This means treating all human blood and bodily fluids as if they are infectious, necessitating barrier protection on all non-disposable items. Adherence to these protocols is a legal and ethical requirement, ensuring the studio operates at the highest level of safety and cleanliness.