FAQ

Find answers to common questions about membership, regulations, and industry standards

MEMBERSHIP QUESTIONS

How do I become a member?

Complete our online application form and submit required documentation including certifications, insurance, and business licenses. Our board reviews applications within 2-3 weeks of submission.

What are the different membership levels?

We offer three membership levels:

Student Member ($50/year): Access to educational resources, student discounts, and mentorship opportunities
Professional Member ($150/year): All student benefits plus directory listing, professional certification, and voting rights
Business Member ($300/year): All professional benefits plus multiple staff certifications and priority support

What documents do I need to submit?

Required documents include:

Business license or registration
Liability insurance certificate
Blood-borne pathogens certification
WHMIS certification
Portfolio of work (for artists)
References from industry professionals

How long does the application process take?

Our board reviews applications within 2-3 weeks of receiving all required documentation. You'll be notified of the decision via email, and upon approval, you can complete payment and receive your membership credentials.

Can I upgrade my membership level?

Yes, you can upgrade your membership at any time. The difference in fees will be prorated based on the remaining time in your current membership period. Contact our office to process the upgrade.

REGULATIONS & COMPLIANCE

What safety protocols must I follow?

All members must follow strict safety protocols including:

Proper sterilization of equipment
Use of single-use needles and tubes
Personal protective equipment (gloves, masks)
Proper disposal of biohazardous waste
Regular facility inspections
Client consent and health screening

What are the age restrictions for clients?

In Alberta, clients must be 18 years or older for tattoos and piercings. For piercings under 18, parental consent is required and the parent must be present during the procedure. Some piercings may have additional age restrictions.

Do I need special insurance for my business?

Yes, all members must carry comprehensive liability insurance with minimum coverage of $2 million. This protects both you and your clients in case of accidents or complications. We can help you find appropriate coverage through our insurance partners.

What are the licensing requirements?

Requirements vary by municipality, but generally include:

Business license from your municipality
Health inspection approval
Fire safety inspection
Proper zoning compliance
Professional certifications

EDUCATION & TRAINING

What courses do you offer?

We offer several essential courses:

Blood-borne Pathogens Course: Required for all practitioners
WHMIS Course: Workplace hazardous materials training
AHS Inspectors Course: For facility inspections
Advanced Safety Protocols: For experienced practitioners
Business Management: For studio owners

How are your courses different from others?

Our courses are specifically designed for the body art industry in Alberta, featuring:

Alberta-specific regulations and requirements
Industry-specific case studies and scenarios
Interactive learning modules
Ongoing support and updates
Recognition by Alberta Health Services
Continuing education credits

How long do the courses take to complete?

Course completion times vary:

Blood-borne Pathogens: 2-3 hours
WHMIS: 1-2 hours
AHS Inspectors: 4-6 hours
Advanced Safety: 3-4 hours
Business Management: 6-8 hours

All courses are self-paced and can be completed online at your convenience.

Do I need to renew my certifications?

Yes, certifications must be renewed every 2-3 years depending on the course. We'll send you reminders when your certification is approaching expiration. Renewal courses are shorter and focus on updates and changes in regulations.

GENERAL QUESTIONS

How can I find certified professionals?

Use our online directory to search for certified professionals by location, type of service, or business name. All listed professionals have been verified and meet our safety and quality standards.

What events do you host?

We host various events throughout the year:

Industry conferences and workshops
Networking events
Safety training sessions
Regulatory update meetings
Annual general meetings
Youth initiatives and education programs

How do I report a safety concern?

If you have a safety concern about a member or facility, please contact us immediately. You can report concerns through our contact form, by phone, or by email. All reports are confidential and investigated thoroughly.

Can I volunteer with the association?

Yes, we welcome volunteers! Opportunities include event planning, youth education programs, committee work, and board positions. Contact us to learn about current volunteer opportunities and how you can contribute to the industry.

Still Have Questions?

Can't find the answer you're looking for? Our team is here to help with any questions about membership, regulations, or industry standards.

FAQ