Ireland is gearing up to enter Phase Three of easing restrictions next week, much to the relief of many businesses across the country.
Taoiseach Leo Varadkar has announced further fast tracking of lifting lockdown with most retailers, cinemas, gyms and of course barbers and hairdressers allowed to reopen from June 29.
The news that we can all get our hair cut, dyed or washed professionally once again has been welcome, however, there will be some key differences to how they operate since before the pandemic.
Here's what to expect when you visit your hairdresser and barber again:
1. An appointment will likely be needed
This isn't a major change as most hairdressers and barbers will offer or require clients to book an appointment with them.
However, under guidelines put together by a number of hair care groups, they are being urged allocate specific times for appointments, as well as product collections and deliverables where practicable.
2. Regular hand washing between each appointment
Employees must wash their hands thoroughly before and after each customer and use hand sanitizer before attending to clients.
Workers will also have to demonstrate sanitisation of hands in front of the client before starting the work or when taking a break and restarting a client during longer treatments.
3. You will likely be subject to screening
Clients that attend for appointments should be screened. All clients should be asked a number of Covid-19 related questions.
This may include whether or not you have been tested for coronavirus or recently been in contact with someone who has recently tested positive.
4. No eyelash extensions
Guidelines state the consultations and service should be performed as much as practicable from the back of the client’s head.
Not a whole lot new here but it means other services like eyelash extensions and other jobs that require work on the face won't go ahead due tot he high risk associated.
5. Your appointment will be kept on record
A system for recording visits to the hair salon or barber shop by employees/clients should be put in place by employers.
This will be used for contact logging should a Covid-19 related incident occurred.
6. No more magazines to pass the time
Sadly all reading materials have been prohibited meaning you will have to find another way to pass the time while getting longer treatments.
7. Hairdressers and barbers will still have to keep their distance
The hairdresser or barber should maximize their body position as much as possible to increase the physical distance from the client.
A one way system for customers should also be implemented onto the premises where it is possible.
8. No more cash and free testers
Receptionists will be required to manage social distancing requirements in the retail area.
This mean contactless payments are to be encouraged and sadly product testers will have to be removed.
All retail products will also have to be washed down regularly.
