BBP Basics
What does BBP stand for?
Bloodborne Pathogen
What's the #1 piece of PPE used by tattoo artists?
Gloves
During a session, you notice a client’s skin is bleeding more than usual. What’s the most likely cause?
A) They ate a large meal before the tattoo
B) They recently took blood thinners or alcohol
C) They are dehydrated
D) The needle is too small
B) They recently took blood thinners or alcohol
Where do used needles go?
Sharps container
What government agency sets rules for workplace BBP safety?
OSHA (Occupational Safety & Health Administration)
True or False: You can tell if someone has a bloodborne pathogen just by looking at them?
False
What is cross-contamination?
The transfer of germs form one surface or person to another
If a glove tears during a tattoo, what should you immediately do before continuing?
Wash your hands
Name 2 things you must barrier-wrap before tattooing
Clip cord, machine power supply, spray bottles
What's one thing most states require before you can legally tattoo?
BBP certification/training
Name one disease caused by a bloodborne pathogen
HIV, Hepatitis B, or Hepatitis C
How long should you wash your hands before putting on gloves?
20 seconds
True or False: You should always call 911 if a client faints.
False
List 3 items that must always be single-use in a tattoo station
Ink caps, razors, gloves and needles
Why is documenting client consent important?
Legal protection, health record, client acknowledgment of risks
Hepatitis B
According to BBP protocol, how many pairs of gloves should you use during a single tattoo session?
At least 2–3 pairs — one for setup, one for tattooing, and one for breakdown (more if contaminated).
Name one sign of a severe allergic reaction (anaphylaxis)
Trouble breathing, swelling of the throat/face, hives, rapid drop in blood pressure.
When should you set up your tattoo station?
Right before the appointment begin, never hours in advance
It is required that shops have a written plan for BBP exposure. What's it called?
Exposure Control Plan
HIV, Hepatitis B, and Hepatitis C are all BBPs. Which is the most infectious in a tattoo setting, and why?
Hepatitis B. It can survive longer outside the body and has a much higher transmission rate than HIV or Hep C.
Which two items are most likely to spread BBPs if touched during a tattoo?
Cell phone and door handle
If a client has a seizure during a tattoo, what's the first thing you do?
Stop tattooing, move sharp/unsafe objects away, do NOT restrain them, call 911
During breakdown, how long should disinfectant remain on surfaces to be effective?
At least 10 minutes
If you accidentally stick yourself with a used needle, what are the 3 things you must do?
Wash the area, report the incident, and seek medical evaluation