Washington Administrative Code
Title 246 - Health, Department of
HUMAN IMMUNODEFICIENCY VIRUS (HIV)
Chapter 246-145 - Body art, body piercing, electrology and tattooing standards for sterilization procedures and infection control
Section 246-145-060 - Sterile procedures in body art, body piercing and tattooing

(a) Use single-use, presterilized disposable needles on one client and then dispose of the needle immediately in a sharps container. Reusable needles must not be used.

(b) Use single-use sharps on only one client and dispose of the items immediately in a sharps container.

(c) Reuse only cleaned and sterilized instruments that are intended for multiple use between clients. A distinct, separate area must be used for cleaning instruments, wrapping/packaging the items and for handling and storing sterilized instruments. Prior to sterilizing and as soon as practical after use, instruments must be brushed or swabbed to remove foreign material or debris, rinsed, then either:

(d) Seal cleaned instruments in bags/packing materials that are compatible with the sterilization process and are sufficiently strong to resist puncture and tears and are cleared by the FDA. Label sterilized instruments with a load number that indicates the sterilizer used, the cycle or load number, and the date of sterilization.

(e) Sterilize instruments using a monitored sterilizer. Follow the sterilization times, temperatures and other parameters recommended by the manufacturers of the instruments, sterilizer and packaging used.

(f) Arrange all items to be sterilized so all surfaces will be directly exposed to the sterilizing agent, which means loading procedures must allow for free circulation of steam (or another sterilant) around each item.

(g) Use mechanical, chemical and biologic monitors to ensure the effectiveness of the sterilization process.

(h) For each sterilization cycle, record the type of sterilizer and cycle used; the load identification number; the load contents; the exposure parameters (e.g., time and temperature); the operator's name or initials, and the results of the mechanical, chemical and biological monitoring. Records must be retained for three years and must be provided to the department upon request.

(i) Perform preventive maintenance of sterilizer as directed by the manufacturer's instructions.

(j) Handle sterilized instruments using aseptic technique to prevent contamination. Store in secure, dry, clean cabinets or other secure covered containers to prevent contamination and packaging being compromised (e.g., wet, punctured, torn).