The Knox County Health Department is amending the rules for tattoo and body piercing businesses.

Officials say it’s not because of any negative issues or violations but only to make certain the local ordinance is up to date with state regulations.

The department addressed the Knox County Commissioners on Tuesday saying there has been an increase in such establishments in recent years and they want them all to be on the same page.

Knox County Sanitarian Tara Hayden says the changes including prohibiting mobile units that offer tattoos and body piercings because it’s difficult to police safety regulations at mobile parlors.

Also before an artist obtains an artist permit,  they would first need to acquire an apprentice permit requiring six months of training and then take a test under Hayden’s supervision…

Also all employees of a tattoo business would need to get certified in first aid, CPR and blood borne pathogen procedures.

The commissioners passed first reading of the revised ordinance which requires two more readings before being formally adopted.