Tattoo shop policy

Here's a question I have for other shop owners. I recently had a discussion with one of my other artists and would like other shop owners input. We have a regular set of working hours Tuesday through Saturday 2 to 10 pm. My artist asked if he could have a key to the shop so he could work off hours when we are not open. I told him no and it has nothing to do with trusting him its just that it is a business with a set schedule and he would have to make his appointments during those times. Occasionally if someone had no choice and had to have an early day appointment, arrangements could be made with enough notice. Do any other shop owners let their artists have keys to work anytime they want?

i think this is a good question that can relate to many businesses. I think the answer boils down to 3 things. 1. insurance risk(are u covered during these hours) 2. employee trust 3. security risk (do you have cameras with an off premises recording system, theft/damage/abuse of privaledges)

If there is a question about whether to give someone a key or not, the answer is no. The resident artists at my studio do have keys but I am very lucky to be working with some amazing artists.

There is a flip side to the scenario as well; I have a great understanding with my boss where there are a select group of friends/family that I absolutely do not charge for tattoos. They've done things for me that more than made up for it. I tattoo them on days that we're closed so that I don't cut into business hours where I would be charging our shop rate. I have no problem giving him money for the shop supplies that were used in that time. The same goes if the boss wants to barter with someone for something, I offer my services to tattoo them as a return favor for my appreciation for him letting me do my thing in off time. But we also have a trust with each other as well; he knows I won't take advantage of him and vice versa. This may or may not work for every situation.