In conversation with Ms. Archana Nakhua Bhanushali, Founder, Ace Tattooz & Art Studio, Mumbai who gives us an insider view on the effect the pandemic has had on the tattoo industry.
We are the industry where human interaction and touch is essential to keep our business going – the salon, spas and tattoo industry has been hugely impacted by the pandemic. As an industry we have to act responsibly to make no error that might cause a human life. Reviving consumer confidence is going to be a huge challenge for the industry.
Better safe than sorry
Being well prepared to avoid contamination and at the same time, the smooth running of business is of the priority of everyone.
The measures that need to be taken by the industry are:
- We will have to follow guidelines from the governing bodies.
- We will have to ask screening questions, limiting the number of people instead of the shops, maintaining social distance, using face masks, gloves and disinfectants like sanitizers.
- Strict waste management protocols have to be maintained.
- Markings for people to maintain social distancing inside the studio will have to be made.
- E- payments to be encouraged.
- Self-declaration forms to be filled and those not complying with the rules shall not be allowed.
- Have a different set of clothes for in-house and travel for the staff.
Importance of hygiene
In the tattoo and salon industry, we have to work in very close proximity to our clients because our work is to craft something on their skin. Now with COVID-19 we will have to increase diligence to maintain the highest standards of health and hygiene.It’s a new way of working which will take some time to get accustomed to, but the sooner we accept the sooner we can move forward.
Measures at the studio
Additional measures that the artists and studio will be required to comply with are disinfecting the studio premises two to three times daily, wearing a mask, hand gloves, full face shield mask, and using sanitising agents at all times. For clients, an online consultation will be done 3 days before the service. To make sure that their health is at par and to collect their travel history. So we could save time at the time of actual tattooing. Service will be provided through pre-bookings and appointment basis only. Clients will be asked to come alone for the service and in case of any special circumstances, one person can accompany them. This will be done to avoid unnecessary gathering of people at the studio.
Upon a client’s arrival, a no-contact thermometer will be used to check their temperature for precautionary measures. Also, the client will be asked to wear a mask at all times during the service. As we move ahead we will surely find new ways and methods to deal with the situation more efficiently and cost-effectively.
Lastly, we all need to be open to change and follow the instructions released by our local government authorities. However we are hopeful that the shops will open soon and safety of ourselves and the clients will be our number one priority.
