Professional conduct

Policies &

Ethical Standards

A unified alliance of manufacturers, studio owners, artists, educators, researchers, and allied professionals - committed to respect, integrity, and inclusivity.

CORE MISSION

At the Tattoo Industry Manufacturers Alliance (TIMA), we believe that a strong, unified industry is built on respect, integrity, and inclusivity. Our community is diverse - comprising manufacturers, studio owners, artists, educators, researchers, and allied professionals - and we are committed to creating a space where all voices can be heard.

Diversity, Personal Beliefs & Inclusion

TIMA supports the right of every individual member to express their own religious, cultural, personal, and philosophical beliefs. We do not require agreement on matters unrelated to tattooing, safety, or industry advancement.

We embrace diversity in all its forms and welcome members from every background. No discrimination, harassment, or targeted exclusion of any individual or group will be tolerated within our organization or at any TIMA-related activity.

Professional Conduct

All members are expected to:

  • Treat clients, colleagues, and industry peers with professional dignity, mutual respect, and basic courtesy at all times.
  • Communicate transparently, honestly, and promptly regarding procedures, expectations, health histories, and aftercare guidance.
  • Represent the tattooing profession honorably across all public, professional, and digital forums while upholding compliant practices.
  • Avoid any actions, discriminatory rhetoric, or predatory behavior that undermines public trust, personal safety, or the integrity of TIMA.

Ethical Standards & Transparency

We maintain strict ethical standards that reflect the core mission of TIMA: To protect the tattoo trade, strengthen industry representation, and promote responsible practices across the entire supply chain.

All members are expected to:

  • Provide accurate information when discussing products, safety, or regulatory matters.

  • Avoid misleading claims, false marketing, or misrepresentation of professional credentials.

  • Disclose relevant conflicts of interest when participating in decision-making or board-level discussions.

  • Respect the confidentiality of TIMA documents, data, and internal communications.

  • Uphold the safety and well-being of artists, clients, and manufacturing partners in all professional actions.

Board Member Standards

Board members are held to the highest level of accountability and are expected to:

  • Act in the best interest of the organization and its mission.

  • Refrain from using their position for personal financial or political gain.

  • Maintain objectivity in discussions and decisions that impact members or industry stakeholders.

  • Ensure their public communications align with TIMA's integrity and goals.

  • Foster an environment where all member groups feel represented and respected.

Artist Member Standards

Artist members are expected to:

  • Uphold high standards of hygiene, safety, and ethical tattoo practice.

  • Communicate product concerns or safety observations responsibly and without defamation.

  • Respect manufacturers, studios, and fellow artists regardless of style, background, or shop culture.

  • Promote the values of education, craftsmanship, and responsible artistry.

Manufacturing Member Standards

Manufacturing members are expected to:

  • Maintain truthfulness and transparency in ingredient disclosure, safety data, and product claims.

  • Uphold quality-control and documentation practices that meet or exceed industry expectations.

  • Avoid predatory behavior, misinformation, or practices that jeopardize public trust in tattoo products.

  • Collaborate constructively with artists, distributors, and regulators to improve product safety and communication.

COMMITMENT TO THE MISSION

Advancing the Industry with Collective Integrity

By adhering to these standards, TIMA members and participants demonstrate our collective dedication to advancing the tattoo industry with integrity, professionalism, and mutual respect. Together, we foster an environment where safety, innovation, and ethical leadership guide every facet of our craft.

Our commitment extends across all manufacturers, studio owners, artists, educators, and researchers working united under these shared principles to build a transparent and enduring future for the global community.

TIMA unites tattoo and PMU stakeholders to advance industry-led standards, regulatory alignment, and member education, protecting public safety without sacrificing the craft.

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