Membership Agreement & Code of Ethics

Thank you for applying for membership in the Canadian Professional Piercers Association (CPPA).

By signing this agreement, you acknowledge that you have reviewed and agree to abide by the policies, standards, and expectations of the CPPA.

I have reviewed and agree to abide by the CPPA Code of Ethics.

I understand that CPPA is an educational and professional association and is not a regulatory body, licensing authority, certification organization, inspection agency, or enforcement body.

I agree to conduct myself professionally and respectfully in CPPA events, educational programs, meetings, online communities, and other CPPA-related activities.

I agree to treat colleagues, clients, educators, volunteers, and community members with respect and professionalism.

I understand that harassment, discrimination, bullying, intimidation, or other harmful behaviour is inconsistent with CPPA membership.

I agree to represent CPPA accurately and will not imply that CPPA provides certification, licensing, inspection, accreditation, or regulatory authority.

I agree not to misrepresent my membership status, professional qualifications, studio standards, or experience.

I understand that membership in CPPA is voluntary and subject to approval, renewal, suspension, or removal in accordance with CPPA policies and bylaws.

I agree to maintain any certifications required for my membership category and to provide updated documentation when required.

I understand that information submitted as part of my membership application may be reviewed by authorized CPPA representatives for membership administration and governance purposes.

I understand that membership dues are non-refundable except where required by law or approved by the Board.

I agree to comply with all applicable laws, regulations, and public health requirements within the jurisdictions in which I operate.

MEMBERSHIP CATEGORY REQUIREMENTS

Individual Members and Apprentice Members acknowledge that they are responsible for maintaining current CPR, First Aid, and Bloodborne Pathogens training as required by CPPA membership policies.

Studio Members acknowledge that they are responsible for maintaining current environmental review requirements, including the submission of updated biological spore testing records and jewelry sourcing documentation every six (6) months.

Associate Members acknowledge that they are expected to conduct business honestly and professionally and to represent their products and services accurately.

I acknowledge that membership in the Canadian Professional Piercers Association carries a responsibility to support professionalism, education, ethical conduct, client safety, and respectful community engagement.

I agree to uphold the values and principles outlined in the CPPA Code of Ethics and to contribute positively to the body piercing community.

CODE OF ETHICS

The CPPA Code of Ethics establishes shared values and expectations for members, directors, officers, and volunteers. It exists to support education, professionalism, and respectful community engagement within the piercing community.

1. Commitment to Education

Members commit to:

• Ongoing learning and professional development

• Sharing knowledge responsibly and accurately

• Supporting evidence-based practices and harm reduction

2. Client Safety & Informed Consent

Members commit to:

• Prioritizing client health, safety, and autonomy

• Practicing informed consent

• Respecting client boundaries, dignity, and privacy

3. Ethical & Professional Conduct

Members commit to:

• Acting with honesty and integrity

• Avoiding misleading claims or misrepresentation

• Conducting themselves professionally in public and private forums4. Respectful Community Engagement

Members commit to:

• Treating colleagues, clients, and educators with respect

• Engaging in constructive dialogue, even in disagreement

• Avoiding harassment, discrimination, or harmful behaviour

CPPA does not tolerate harassment or discrimination, including but not limited to conduct based on:

• Race or ethnicity

• Nationality or religion

• Gender, gender identity, or gender expression

• Sexual orientation

• Disability or accessibility needs

• Age or any other protected characteristic

Members are expected to contribute to an environment that is inclusive, welcoming, and safe for all.

5. Education-First Culture

CPPA prioritizes:

• Learning over judgment

• Guidance over punishment

• Growth over exclusion

CPPA is not a regulatory, licensing, or enforcement body and does not function as a

disciplinary authority.

6. Accountability

Members acknowledge that ethical concerns may be addressed through education, dialogue, or mediation where appropriate. Repeated or serious violations may result in suspension or removal of membership in accordance with the CPPA Bylaws. Membership decisions, including suspension or removal, are made at the discretion of the Board.

7. Representation of CPPA

Members, directors, officers, and volunteers commit to:

• Representing CPPA accurately and responsibly

• Avoiding statements that imply regulatory authority

• Acting in alignment with CPPA’s mission and values

• Maintaining confidentiality of sensitive organizational information where applicable

I have read the above Code of Ethics

I certify that the information I have provided to the CPPA is accurate and complete to the best of my knowledge.

Name:

First NameLast Name

Email

example@example.com

Membership Category:

Signature

Current Date:

Date

Membership Agreement & Code of Ethics

Member Acknowledgements

CODE OF ETHICS ACKNOWLEDGEMENT

DECLARATION