LAC 51:XXVIII.119. Approved Sterilization Modes [formerly paragraph 28:010]

A. [Formerly paragraph 28:010-1] Instruments used in the practice of commercial body art services shall be sterilized, using one of the following methods: 1. in a steam or chemical autoclave sterilizer, registered and listed with the Federal Food and Drug Administration (FDA), and used, cleaned, and maintained according to manufacturer's directions; or 2. with single-use, prepackaged, sterilized equipment obtained from reputable suppliers or manufacturers. B. [Formerly paragraph 28:010-2] Facility registrants and operators shall sterilize all piercing instruments that have or may come in direct contact with a client's skin or be exposed to blood or body fluids. Piercing needles shall not be reused. All piercing needles shall be single use. C. [Formerly paragraph 28:010-3] All sterilizing devices shall be tested on a monthly basis for functionality and thorough sterilization by use of the following means: 1. chemical indicators that change color, to assure sufficient temperature and proper functioning of equipment during the sterilization cycle; and 2. a biological monitoring system using commercially prepared spores, to assure that all microorganisms have been destroyed and sterilization has been achieved. This testing shall be performed on a monthly basis for tattoo and body piercing facilities. D. [Formerly paragraph 28:010-4] Sterilization device test results shall be made available at the facility at all times for inspection by the state health officer for a minimum of three years.