The Irish Hairdressers Federation this morning issued guidelines on reopening later this month.
Hairdressers and barbers currently won't be allowed open until July 20 but hope they can move forward to phase three on June 29.
Minister Simon Harris said this morning that the Government will consider the measures and feasibility of opening a phase earlier.
Here's a look at the guidelines from a client point of view - from prebooking your appointment, sitting in the chair and heading back out again.
Barber and hairdresser experience under new guidelines
Making your appointment
- Walk-ins will become largely a thing of the past and you will be asked to pre-book in the majority of places.
- Screening questions like whether you have any symptoms will be displayed online and in the salon/barber.
- There will be protocol to support elderly and vulnerable clients.
Entering the salon/barber
- The COVID-19 hygiene and salon protocol should be posted at every entry point.
- Sanitation stations at every entry and exit point.
- There will be a no touch greeting policy.
- Markings to implement social distancing.
- High touch areas like door handles will be constantly disinfected.
Reception and retail area
- Manage social distancing requirements in retail area.
- A protective screen at the reception desk is advisable where applicable.
- Hand sanitiser for customers will be provided.
- Contactless payments will be encouraged where possible.
- Owners will have to clean and disinfect shelves regularly.
- Product testers will be removed.
Gowns and towels
- Disposable gowns and towels will be disposed of directly into a waste bin.
- Regular towels and gowns should be used once and laundered.
Once in the chair
- The hairdressing service will be performed as practicable from the back of the client’s head.
- The hairdresser or barber should maximize their body position as much as possible to increase the physical distance from the client.
Reading material
- The days of reading newspapers and magazines while waiting is over unless you bring your own - sharing won't be allowed.
