Chatham-Kent Public Health Issues Warnings Over Unlicensed Tattoo and Piercing Studios
Getting a tattoo or piercing is a personal expression, but without proper oversight, it can lead to serious medical complications. Recently, CK Public Health has issued critical advisories regarding unlicensed and uninspected studios in Chatham, warning the public about inadequate infection control and the potential for blood-borne diseases.
Urgent Alert: Willows Tattoo and Piercing
On March 24, 2026, CK Public Health identified inadequate equipment disinfection practices at Willows Tattoo and Piercing, located at 805 Grand Avenue West in Chatham.
The health unit specifically warned individuals who received tattoo or piercing services at this location between October 1, 2025, and March 23, 2026. As the provider was both unlicensed and uninspected, there are significant concerns regarding the safety of the procedures performed during this window.
Understanding the Health Risks
When tattoo and piercing equipment isn’t properly sterilized, the risk of transmitting pathogens increases significantly. Inadequate infection control can expose clients to:
- Blood-borne infections: This includes high-risk viruses such as HIV, Hepatitis B, and Hepatitis C.
- Skin infections: Bacterial contamination can lead to localized or systemic skin infections.
If you received services at Willows Tattoo and Piercing during the identified period, health officials strongly advise that you be evaluated by a healthcare provider or visit a walk-in clinic for screening.
Past Advisories: Tattoos by Cienna
This is not the first time the community has been alerted to uninspected shops. In October 2023, CK Public Health issued a similar advisory for Tattoos by Cienna, located at 211 Park St. In Chatham. Clients of that parlour were also warned of the risk of contracting HIV and Hepatitis B and C due to the shop being uninspected.
Individuals impacted by that specific notice were encouraged to contact CK Public Health at 519-355-1071 ext. 2902 for recommended blood-borne infection testing.
How to Ensure Your Tattoo Studio is Safe
To avoid health risks, you shouldn’t rely on a studio’s appearance alone. It’s essential to verify that a business is compliant with infection prevention and control legislation.
Residents of Chatham-Kent can protect themselves by taking these steps:
- Verify Inspections: Use the Check It CK tool to review the inspection results of local businesses.
- Confirm Licensing: Ask the artist or owner for proof that the business is inspected by the local public health authority.
- Observe Practices: Ensure the artist uses modern, sterile needles and follows strict disinfection protocols.
- Willows Tattoo and Piercing Alert: Services between Oct 1, 2025, and Mar 23, 2026, are under review for inadequate disinfection.
- Immediate Action: If you visited Willows during this time, see a doctor immediately for evaluation.
- Verification: Always check the “Check It CK” database before booking a session.
- Risks: Unlicensed shops increase the risk of HIV, Hepatitis, and severe skin infections.
Summary
Public health alerts in Chatham highlight the dangers of using unlicensed body art providers. Whether it’s the recent warning for Willows Tattoo and Piercing or previous alerts for Tattoos by Cienna, the message is clear: professional inspection is the only way to guarantee a sterile environment. By prioritizing verified shops and seeking medical evaluation after exposure to uninspected studios, you can protect your long-term health.