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n June 2002, a 22-year-old female patient was diagnosed with hepatitis B infection. The only risk I factor identified was a navel piercing procedure, performed three months prior to the infection. An investigation was initiated. MethodAn audit form was devised based on the infection control audit forms available (Millward et al, 7993; Chartered lnstitute of Environmental Health, 2007). The aim of the audit was to identify areas of poor practice where intervention may be needed to protect the health of the public. The audit tool explored the environment, personal hygiene, protective clothing, decontamination, waste disposal, sharps, and guidelineslpolicies. ResultsTen premises were visited between August and October 2002; of these, two were body piercers only, three tattooists only and five carried out both procedures. In many places, use of a bench-top autoclave caused concern with a lack of knowledge of monitoring, maintenance and correct use. Inappropriate waste disposal and sharps containerstorage, inadequate hepatitis B immunisation and a range of consent forms were identified. A written report and posters on sharps injury, handwashing and sample consent forms were provided, Conclusions Body piercing and tattooing procedures have long been recognised as presenting a potential risk for the spread of blood borne viruses. This audit has highlighted deficiencies in the legislation outside London, as well as a variety of standards in the education of practitioners. Owners were provided with advice and support to make changes where needed.

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The postgraduate Eastman Dental Clinic and Institute of Dental Surgery were established in 1947. However their roots go back to Rochester in New York State where George Eastman was born in 1854. George Eastman literally changed the image of the world by creating popular photography. In 1914 he was driven by his painful neglected dentition to seek the help of Harvey Jacob Burkhart (pictured, right) who was considered to be the best dentist in the state. Burkhart provided him, for the first time in his adult life, with comfortable dentures, which not only restored function but also his appearance. George Eastman was overwhelmed with his new found comfort and social confidence.