HSE Hairdressing Guidance: Who Qualifies and What You Get
Learn the legal standards for chemical handling and workspace safety required for salon owners and mobile stylists in the UK.
This guidance provides the essential legal standards for managing chemical safety and workspace security within the hairdressing industry.
Who it's for
This guidance is designed for anyone working professionally within the hair industry in the United Kingdom. It is intended for salon owners who manage a fixed physical location, as well as mobile stylists who travel to various clients to perform their services. Whether you operate out of a traditional shop or work as a freelance professional at private residences, these standards apply to your business operations.
What you get
The guidance provides you with the necessary legal standards for managing the risks associated with hairdressing. This includes specific instructions on the safe handling of various chemicals used during services and maintaining a safe, professional workspace. By following these standards, you can better manage the physical risks inherent in the profession and ensure your environment meets required safety levels for both staff and clients.
What it costs you
There is no financial cost to access these resources. The guidance is provided through free digital guides that you can review online to ensure your business practices are up to date with national safety requirements.
The catch to know
The most critical thing to remember is the importance of following patch testing protocols. Patch testing is the process of applying a small amount of a product to a client's skin to check for an allergic reaction before a full service is performed. If you fail to follow these specific safety protocols, you may find that your professional insurance is voided, leaving you personally liable if a client has a reaction to a product.
How to apply
- Visit the official portal to access the digital guidance.
- Review the specific sections regarding chemical handling and workspace safety.
- Incorporate these safety standards into your daily business routine.
- Ensure you have a consistent system for performing patch tests on all clients to protect your insurance coverage.