Goggles
From BME Encyclopedia
In order to create a total barrier between the client and practitioner, some artists (but not many; don't expect it) choose to wear safety goggles or other eye protection. This is for the protection of the artist, not the client — if there is a chance of blood spray or misting (which will happen with tattooing, and less commonly with piercing and other procedures), then there is the chance (however slim) of foreign blood coming in contact with the artist's eyes.
The membranes surrounding the eye are extremely permeable and it is very easy for bloodborne pathogens to cross using them. Contamination in the eye should be taken as seriously as needle stick injuries.