Compilation of Rules and Regulations of the State of Georgia
Department 511 - RULES OF GEORGIA DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC HEALTH
Chapter 511-3 - ENVIRONMENTAL HEALTH HAZARDS
Subject 511-3-8 - BODY ART
Rule 511-3-8-.16 - Piercing Jewelry
Current through Rules and Regulations filed through September 23, 2024
(1) Client and the body piercer should have appropriate size and quality jewelry chosen before the procedure begins.
(2) Jewelry used in piercing shall meet the requirements of DPH Rule 511-3-8-.04(45)(a) - (k) and consist of a material rated by the ASTM or the ISO as being suitable for permanent surgical implant, such as stainless steel, titanium, niobium, solid platinum, or a dense low porosity plastic such as Tygon or PTFE. Copies of the jewelry manufacturer's documentation which verify compliance with standards must be available for inspection on request. Solid 14 karat or higher, white, or yellow nickel-free gold may also be used. Purity verification must be available for inspection on request.
(3) The jewelry must be free of nicks, scratches, or irregular surfaces.
(4) All jewelry must be properly sterilized prior to use in a medical grade chamber or cassette autoclave. Any two-piece or multi-piece jewelry that is screwed or pieced together must be separated prior to sterilization. Pre-sterilized jewelry is allowed if documentation is provided from the manufacturer stating all parts of the jewelry is pre-sterilized.
(5) Should jewelry become contaminated during the piercing process, a sterile piece of jewelry must be used, or re-sterilization must occur prior to use.
(6) Ear studs or other jewelry designed for ear lobe piercing are not appropriate jewelry for other body parts and shall not be used for any other purpose.
O.C.G.A. § 31-40-5.
