Electrical Safety for London Beauty Clinics and Tattoo Studios

Aesthetic clinics, laser and skin clinics, tattoo and piercing studios use specialist equipment that hairdressers and nail bars do not: lasers and IPL machines, autoclaves for sterilising tools, powered treatment beds and ultrasonic cleaners. Many work from small high street units in London. This guide covers the electrical points that matter for these businesses. For hair and beauty salons, see our separate guide to gyms, studios and salons. It is general information, not legal or clinical advice.

Who is responsible

The business owner is responsible for keeping the installation and equipment safe for staff and clients. Local councils may license tattoo, piercing and some cosmetic treatments, and inspectors may ask about the premises. Insurers often want electrical certificates on file.

Fixed wiring: EICR

An EICR checks the distribution board, wiring, sockets and lighting. Treatment rooms with powerful equipment and water nearby benefit from regular inspection. Our guide to EICRs for commercial units explains the process.

Lasers, IPL and high-power equipment

• Some laser and IPL machines need a dedicated circuit or a specific type of socket, as set out by the manufacturer.
• Check the equipment's power rating before installing it, so the circuit and protection are suitable.
• Avoid running these machines from extension leads or adaptors.
• Keep a record of equipment servicing alongside your electrical certificates.

Autoclaves, sinks and hygiene areas

Autoclaves and ultrasonic cleaners run hot and are often next to sinks. Sockets should be positioned away from splashes, with RCD protection on the circuit. A dedicated circuit for sterilising equipment avoids nuisance tripping when several items run at once. See our guide on why an RCD keeps tripping.

Treatment beds and lighting

Powered treatment beds and tattoo chairs need sockets close to where they stand, so cables do not cross the floor. Good, even task lighting matters for detailed work; LED fittings with high colour accuracy are a common choice. See our guide to LED lighting upgrades.

Portable appliances and fire safety

Tattoo machines, power supplies, lamps and chargers benefit from regular PAT testing. Emergency lighting and a fire alarm suited to the premises should be set out in the fire risk assessment. See our guide to PAT testing.

Book an inspection

Energy North Ltd inspects clinics and studios across North, East and West London with City & Guilds certified electricians, and can work outside appointment times. See our EICR service.