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In Georgia, the requirements for autoclave spore testing in tattoo studios are regulated by the Georgia Department of Public Health (DPH) and the state’s rules for tattooing. Autoclave spore testing is a critical practice to ensure that autoclaves are effectively sterilizing equipment used in tattooing procedures.

Governor Kemp signed into Law Senate Bill 214 which directs the Georgia Department of Public Health to adopt statewide Body Art regulations including the permitting of body artists. On March 6, 2023, the Department passed Chapter 511-3-8, Rules and Regulations for Body Art. Implementation of the Chapter will begin on October 6, 2023, six months after the effective posting date. Existing artists and studios will be given until October 6, 2024, a 12-month period, to meet the new requirements.

Woodhouse Laboratories can help you meet your testing requirements and comply with the regulations put into place by Governor Kemp.

Spore tests shall be used at a minimum frequency of every 40 hours of operation of the
autoclave but not less than on a monthly basis unless the manufacturer specifies more frequent
monitoring. Records of the results must be kept for a minimum of three years. An independent
commercial testing laboratory contracted by the permit owner or body artist, or both shall
perform biological spore testing of the autoclave. A provision shall be included in the contract
with the commercial testing laboratory requiring the body art studio to notify the Health
Authority of any failure of the autoclave to eradicate all living organisms, including spores.

Upon notification of a positive microbiological monitoring report, the autoclave shall be
immediately checked for proper use and function and the permit owner shall cease use of the
autoclave immediately upon receipt of the positive report. Any items remaining bagged after
sterilization must be reprocessed and sterilized by a medical-grade autoclave approved for use
prior to return to service. A negative biological test and passing a Class 5 integrating indicator
must be achieved before the autoclave can be used again and the studio is reopened. The studio
shall have the option to obtain a properly functioning sterilizer with a negative biological report
in order to remain open or if the studio has more than one autoclave in operation, they may be
given approval to remain open. The Body Art Studio’s standard operation procedure should
include an emergency plan should an autoclave failure or malfunction occur.

For detailed guidance, tattoo studio owners should consult the Georgia Department of Public Health’s rules or local regulations regarding body art establishments.

Need a third party lab to perform your regular spore testing? SporeAlert is a mail-in sterilizer monitoring service that makes it convenient for you to do your routine testing. All you have to do is run the strip through your sterilizer and drop it in the mail. We take care of the rest! For more information click here.

Related Articles

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  Georgia Spore Testing Requirements for Tattoo/Body Art
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  Understanding the Difference Between Single Strip and Multi Strip Test Kits for Sterilization Monitoring
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  Understanding the Differences Between Sanitization and Sterilization

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A single strip test kit and a multi strip test kit serve similar purposes in sterilization monitoring but cater to different needs based on the scale and requirements of the user.

Here at Woodhouse Laboratories, we recommend ordering one test kit per sterilizer, as our envelopes are custom printed with your sterilizer details. This ensures that each test is specifically tailored to the sterilizer being monitored. We do not recommend using a multi strip test kit to test multiple sterilizers, as it could lead to confusion in tracking and maintaining the correct data for each individual unit.

Single Strip Test Kit:

• Design and Use: The single strip test kit includes one test strip and one control strip per envelope. It is primarily designed for routine sterilizer checks, ideal for small to medium-scale operations or those with standard sterilization needs.
• Regulatory Compliance: It meets compliance regulations across all 50 states, making it a widely accepted choice for ensuring that sterilization processes are in line with health and safety standards.
• Popularity: This is the most popular product due to its simplicity, and ease of use.
• Functionality: The test is effective for checking the sterilization efficiency in individual sterilizer cycles, offering a quick result for each test.

Multi Strip Test Kit:

• Design and Use: The multi strip test kit includes two test strips and one control strip per envelope, and is typically used in larger industrial autoclaves or by clients who need to test multiple areas within the sterilizer chamber.
• Comprehensive Monitoring: This kit provides a more thorough assessment of the sterilizer’s performance by allowing users to test different locations within the chamber. This can reveal potential inconsistencies or issues in the sterilization process that may not be detected with a single test strip.
• Application: It is ideal for clients running very full loads in their sterilizers or those who want to monitor the functionality across a larger surface area or more complex sterilization setup.
• Benefit: The multi-strip kit provides a more comprehensive view of how the sterilizer is functioning, making it a valuable tool for industries that require high-volume or complex sterilization processes.

In summary, while the single strip test kit offers simplicity and regulatory compliance for standard sterilization checks, the multi strip test kit is better suited for larger operations or situations where detailed monitoring of different areas within the sterilizer is needed.

Need a third party lab to perform your regular spore testing? SporeAlert is a mail-in sterilizer monitoring service that makes it convenient for you to do your routine testing. All you have to do is run the strip through your sterilizer and drop it in the mail. We take care of the rest! For more information click here.

Related Articles

• 
  Georgia Spore Testing Requirements for Tattoo/Body Art
• 
  Understanding the Difference Between Single Strip and Multi Strip Test Kits for Sterilization Monitoring
• 
  Understanding the Differences Between Sanitization and Sterilization

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Prepare Your Envelope:

Fill out the test date and operator on the back of your envelope.
Include the sterilizer Make, Model, and Serial number if not already provided.

Add Your Return Address:

● On the top left corner on the front of the envelope, write your name and address. This is
important in case the letter cannot be delivered and needs to be returned to you.
● Do not write your address anywhere other than the top left corner. Placing your address
on the wrong side of the envelope may result in your test being returned.

Affix Postage:

● Affix a first class stamp to the top right corner on the front of the envelope.
Send the Letter:
● Place your letter in the mailbox or take it to the post office.
Additional Services:
● If you require tracking, certified mail, or delivery confirmation, inquire about these options
at the post office

Please allow one week for delivery using USPS First Class Mail. If you need to rush your
test to us, you can use an expedited service. If shipping via UPS or FedEx, your test must be
shipped to our street address:
Woodhouse Laboratories, 2003 Main Street, Ferndale WA 98248

Once we receive your test, processing will start same-day. Results are provided after 24 hours
for steam sterilizers, 72 hours for chemical sterilizers, and 7 days for all other sterilizers.

We’re always happy to assist with any questions! Feel free to visit our website at
www.woodhouselabs.com for more information.

Need a third party lab to perform your regular spore testing? SporeAlert is a mail-in sterilizer monitoring service that makes it convenient for you to do your routine testing. All you have to do is run the strip through your sterilizer and drop it in the mail. We take care of the rest! For more information click here.

Related Articles

• 
  Georgia Spore Testing Requirements for Tattoo/Body Art
• 
  Understanding the Difference Between Single Strip and Multi Strip Test Kits for Sterilization Monitoring
• 
  Understanding the Differences Between Sanitization and Sterilization

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Proper infection control in tattoo studios begins with the selection of safe and sterile equipment. All needles, tattoo machines, and other tools must be sterile, and must be properly disposed of after each use. Additionally, the studio must be kept clean and free of clutter, with surfaces regularly disinfected and cleaned. The tattoo artist must also follow strict hygiene practices, including washing their hands before and after each tattoo and wearing gloves throughout the procedure. They should also be aware of the signs of infection, such as redness, swelling, and discharge, and take appropriate action if they occur.

There are over 21,000 tattoo studios throughout the 50 states. 40 states + DC require studios to perform monitoring of their sterilizer. Most of those require that such testing be performed by a 3rd party. Insufficient monitoring means the tattooist jeopardizes both their license and the health of their clients.

Most states require monthly testing, but there are a few exceptions. Missouri and Ohio have the strictest laws, both requiring weekly monitoring of sterilizers in tattoo facilities, which puts them on par with most state’s dental regulations. Florida and Kansas require only quarterly testing (every 3 months). State regulations are subject to change with political tides, and many local municipalities have their own regulations, so always review your local laws and codes to verify your current regulations.  To see your state’s requirements, check out our map of all state’s tattoo regulations which includes links to regulatory documents.

Finally, it’s important for tattoo studios to have a clear and detailed infection control policy in place. This policy should be provided to all clients and employees and should be reviewed and updated regularly. In conclusion, infection control is an essential aspect of tattooing. Proper selection and sterilization of equipment, hygiene practices, management of blood and other bodily fluids, and the implementation of a clear infection control policy are all crucial for ensuring safe and sterile procedures in tattoo studios.

Need a third party lab to perform your regular spore testing? SporeAlert is a mail-in sterilizer monitoring service that makes it convenient for you to do your routine testing. All you have to do is run the strip through your sterilizer and drop it in the mail. We take care of the rest! For more information click here.

Related Articles

• 
  Georgia Spore Testing Requirements for Tattoo/Body Art
• 
  Understanding the Difference Between Single Strip and Multi Strip Test Kits for Sterilization Monitoring
• 
  Understanding the Differences Between Sanitization and Sterilization

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Autoclave spore test strips are small, self-contained units used to test the effectiveness of an autoclave in sterilizing equipment and materials. These test strips contain a specific type of bacteria, usually Geobacillus stearothermophilus and Bacillus atrophaeus/subtillus, that is known to be highly resistant to heat and typically used as a biological indicator of sterilization.

In conclusion, autoclave spore test strips are an essential tool for ensuring the effectiveness of an autoclave in sterilizing equipment and materials. Regularly using these test strips, proper storage and handling, and following the manufacturer’s instructions can help ensure that the autoclave is working effectively and that equipment and materials are properly sterilized.

Need a third party lab to perform your regular spore testing? SporeAlert is a mail-in sterilizer monitoring service that makes it convenient for you to do your routine testing. All you have to do is run the strip through your sterilizer and drop it in the mail. We take care of the rest! For more information click here.

Related Articles

• 
  Georgia Spore Testing Requirements for Tattoo/Body Art
• 
  Understanding the Difference Between Single Strip and Multi Strip Test Kits for Sterilization Monitoring
• 
  Understanding the Differences Between Sanitization and Sterilization

<- Back to Learning Center

Now, see when we’ve received your test in real time! Looking for a result? All tests are logged in the same day that they are received and will show up on your results dashboard. This is a great way to verify the status of your test.

As always, we start your test the same day it is received, and post results after 24 hours for steam sterilizers, 72 hours for chemical, and 7 days for dry heat.

Take control of your results.

All of your results are stored safely on our online dashboard, and are available 24/7.

Our dashboard offers advanced sorting – allowing you to view results by Office, Test Date, or Result.

Use the Print button to get a snapshot of all of your results. Want more control? The CSV button will download a spreadsheet for advanced compliance monitoring. Need more details for a specific test? Download a PDF of your full report.

Need a third party lab to perform your regular spore testing? SporeAlert is a mail-in sterilizer monitoring service that makes it convenient for you to do your routine testing. All you have to do is run the strip through your sterilizer and drop it in the mail. We take care of the rest! For more information click here.

Related Articles

• 
  Georgia Spore Testing Requirements for Tattoo/Body Art
• 
  Understanding the Difference Between Single Strip and Multi Strip Test Kits for Sterilization Monitoring
• 
  Understanding the Differences Between Sanitization and Sterilization

<- Back to Learning Center

Come visit us at the Pacific Northwest Dental Conference! Booth #732. We have all of the information on Washington State’s new waterline testing regulations.

Thursday Nov. 11: 9:00AM – 7:00PM
Friday Nov. 12: 9:00AM – 2:00PM

The conference typically features a variety of educational sessions, including lectures, hands-on workshops, and panel discussions. Topics covered at the conference can include new techniques and technologies in dentistry, advances in oral surgery, and updates on dental research.

One of the highlights of the conference is the exhibit hall, where vendors showcase their latest products and services. Attendees can check out the latest dental equipment, software, and supplies. The exhibit hall is also a great place to network and make new connections.

The Pacific Northwest Dental Conference also provides an opportunity for dental professionals to earn continuing education (CE) credits. Most states require dental professionals to complete a certain number of CE hours each year in order to maintain their licenses, and attending the conference can help them fulfill this requirement.

Another important aspect of the conference is the opportunity to network with other dental professionals from the region. Attendees can connect with colleagues, make new contacts, and share ideas and best practices.

In summary, the Pacific Northwest Dental Conference offers an invaluable opportunity for dental professionals to learn about the latest advancements in the field, discover new products and services, and network with colleagues. With a wide range of educational sessions, an exhibit hall and an opportunity to earn CE credits, it is an event not to be missed for dental professionals in the region.

Need a third party lab to perform your regular spore testing? SporeAlert is a mail-in sterilizer monitoring service that makes it convenient for you to do your routine testing. All you have to do is run the strip through your sterilizer and drop it in the mail. We take care of the rest! For more information click here.

Related Articles

• 
  Georgia Spore Testing Requirements for Tattoo/Body Art
• 
  Understanding the Difference Between Single Strip and Multi Strip Test Kits for Sterilization Monitoring
• 
  Understanding the Differences Between Sanitization and Sterilization

<- Back to Learning Center

The Idaho State Dental Association Annual Session is an event that brings together dentists, dental hygienists, and other dental professionals from the state of Idaho. It is organized by the Idaho State Dental Association (ISDA) and typically held in the spring. The conference provides an excellent opportunity for attendees to learn about the latest developments in the field of dentistry and network with their peers.

The conference features a wide range of educational sessions, including lectures, hands-on workshops, and panel discussions. Topics covered at the conference include the latest advancements in dental treatment, new technologies in the field, and updates on research. Attendees can also learn about the latest dental products and services from vendors in the exhibit hall.

One of the highlights of the ISDA Annual Session is the opportunity to hear from some of the most respected dentists in the state of Idaho. Renowned speakers from the state present on current topics in dentistry, providing attendees with valuable insights and practical tips that they can apply in their own practices.

The conference also provides an opportunity for dental professionals to earn continuing education (CE) credits. Most states require dental professionals to complete a certain number of CE hours each year in order to maintain their licenses, and attending the conference can help them fulfill this requirement.

Another important aspect of the ISDA Annual Session is the opportunity to network with other dental professionals from the state of Idaho. Attendees can connect with colleagues, make new contacts, and share ideas and best practices.

In summary, the Idaho State Dental Association Annual Session offers an invaluable opportunity for dental professionals in the state of Idaho to learn about the latest advancements in the field, discover new products and services, and network with colleagues. With a wide range of educational sessions and an exhibit hall, it is an event not to be missed for dental professionals in the state.

Need a third party lab to perform your regular spore testing? SporeAlert is a mail-in sterilizer monitoring service that makes it convenient for you to do your routine testing. All you have to do is run the strip through your sterilizer and drop it in the mail. We take care of the rest! For more information click here.

Related Articles

• 
  Georgia Spore Testing Requirements for Tattoo/Body Art
• 
  Understanding the Difference Between Single Strip and Multi Strip Test Kits for Sterilization Monitoring
• 
  Understanding the Differences Between Sanitization and Sterilization

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Woodhouse Laboratories offers more than standard presence/absence testing of biological indicators. We are also offer Biological Indicator Population Verification tests. Population verification is useful for:

• Verifying that your biological indicator meets manufacturer’s claims of the population inoculated on the carrier
• Initial autoclave verification – determine lethality rates and D-values
• Research projects – Need to know the quantity of bacterial spores remaining after a sterilization cycle? Population verification provides quantitative data.

Background

The Biological Indicator Population Verification test determines the number of spores on a biological indicator (BI) and is used to enumerate survivors from a sterilization process to determine lethality rates and D-values. A count ensures the count recovered meets manufacturer’s claims of the population inoculated on the carrier.

Population enumeration is important because it provides quantitative data, whereas a BI sterility test only provides growth/no growth results.

These are tested in accordance with USP <55> Biological Indicators – Resistance Performance Tests or manufacturer’s instructions.

Method Description

When performing Biological Indicator Population Verification testing, BIs are macerated using sterile glass beads. The macerate is then heat shocked, and the suspension is diluted to yield colonies in the range of 30–300 colony-forming units (CFU) and then plated. Other methods can be used as required. All results are compared against an untreated spore strip or BI control.

Please contact us for pricing information.

Need a third party lab to perform your regular spore testing? SporeAlert is a mail-in sterilizer monitoring service that makes it convenient for you to do your routine testing. All you have to do is run the strip through your sterilizer and drop it in the mail. We take care of the rest! For more information click here.

Related Articles

• 
  Georgia Spore Testing Requirements for Tattoo/Body Art
• 
  Understanding the Difference Between Single Strip and Multi Strip Test Kits for Sterilization Monitoring
• 
  Understanding the Differences Between Sanitization and Sterilization