Northeast Calgary tattoo studio shut down over health violations
Alberta Health Services closed a basement tattoo operation in Saddletowne after inspectors found missing safety equipment and sanitation failures.
A home-based tattoo studio in northeast Calgary has been ordered to close after health inspectors found multiple violations that put clients at risk.
Alberta Health Services issued a closure order to Harsh Tattooz, operated from the basement of a Saddletowne home, after discovering the operator had not notified the agency that a tattoo service was being run there.
Inspectors found the operation missing basic infection-control supplies: low-level disinfectant, proper antiseptic for skin preparation, and adequate handwashing materials. They also documented diluted soap, a reusable towel shared between clients, untreated wooden furniture that couldn't be sanitized, and no sharps container for used needles. Sterility documentation for cartridges and equipment lacking full barrier protection were also noted.
AHS has ordered the business to stop all services, remove advertising, and submit a Personal Services Notification. The studio must supply proper disinfectants and antiseptics, improve handwashing facilities, ensure all surfaces are cleanable, create written procedures, provide a sharps container, and fully protect equipment before it can reopen. AHS will need to confirm compliance before operations can resume.