Hairdressers and barbers are preparing to reopen on 15 July under the SNP Government’s route map out of lockdown.
To ensure salons can safely reopen, new guidance has been published which also covers services such as beauty salons, spas, indoor photography studios and make-up counters which have been given an indicative opening date of 22 July.
Key measures include:
Physical distancing with marked areas between seats and treatment stations
Perspex screens installed at workstations, including reception areas if possible
Bookings by appointment only with times staggered to minimise overlap of clients
Retention of customer details for four weeks to share details for Test and Protect if required
Face coverings mandatory for staff and customers with visors recommended for staff
Reading materials and refreshments removed other than water on request.
Kenneth Gibson MSP said:
“The reopening of hairdressers and barbers on Wednesday signals a further step out of lockdown for our economy and shows that we continue to make progress in successfully suppressing coronavirus (COVID-19).
“I have an appointment at 7.45 am on Wednesday and I’m looking forward to removal of the mop I’ve grown since March. Thousands of others will be keen to visit a salon as soon as they can. Most I expect will now be booked for weeks to come!
“Guidance, developed in partnership with employers, industry bodies and trades unions, provides the information businesses need to ensure the safety of staff and customers as they reopen. People should look for those safety measures and be aware of the need to follow the FACTS at all times when out and about. If you don’t see those safety measures, or you don’t feel you can follow appropriate hygiene rules, then don’t take the risk. If everyone sticks to the rules, we will drive the virus down further and live less restricted lives in the weeks and months ahead.
“The SNP Government is providing grant support worth over £1 billion to businesses as part of a wider support package worth over £2.3 billion and will continue to do everything possible to sustain and revive our economy.”
Hilary Hall, Chief Executive of the National Hair and Beauty Federation, added:
“The Scottish hair and beauty industry generate turnover of over £600 million a year. As well as the economic contribution, this sector is also imperative to our well-being and so we are delighted that hairdressers and barbers will be able to return to work on 15 July.
“Protecting clients and staff is our top priority so our members have been preparing their salons to make them safe. They are report being fully booked for the near future which is positive news and should mean they will can recover and grow from the pandemic.”
Remember FACTS for a safer Scotland.
ENDS