Workers and clientele in hairdressers and beauty salons face a number of potential hazards from the range of treatments that they provide. The employer and the person in control of the business have responsibilities for ensuring that no-one’s health or safety is at risk.
In addition to the everyday hazards faced by workers specific hazards and risks faced by hairdressers and beauticians include;
- dermatitis due to hands being in water frequently and inadequate drying
- respiratory sensitisation from chemicals used in colouring and other products;
- minor cuts and burns from scissors and heated styling equipment;
- musculoskeletal problems from leaning, bending, stooping etc. during treatments
- allergic reactions (staff and clients) to products.
- inadequate sterilisation of re-usable equipment;
- inadequate disposal of needles, cotton wool and other disposable products;
- inadequate cleaning procedures for the premises.
- inadequate training of staff carrying out skin piercing, electrolysis and waxing
- inadequate disposal of sharps.
- exposure to harmful levels of ultra violet light from sunbeds
