Everyone who walks into a salon has a particular expectation – whether to get their hair cut and styled or get their hair treated with a perm or hair dye. In other words, no one expects to come out of the salon with an injury! But, did you know that hairdressers and the salons they work for have to deliver the correct service and care to you, their customer? What if they have failed in their duty and have caused harm and injury to your person? There are various rules and regulations that every hairdresser and salon needs to follow. So what are these rules and regulations? Here is everything you need to know.
The general guidelines
According to the beauty treatment solicitors of Shires Law, salon operators and hairdressers in the UK are supposed to adhere to legislation on health and safety under the law. The legislation protects those who work there (the staff) and visitors from injuries because of accidents in the salon or other related incidents. Also, there are a few policies which hairdressers are supposed to follow, and some of these are requirements. Some of these policies include the following:
- Hairdressers/hairstylists have to undergo proper training and instruction
A hair salon owes a ‘duty of care’ to its clients to ensure that hairdressers are professionally trained and skilled. Hairdressers have to show a fair degree of competence, and they should have information such as knowing when to remove various products from a client’s scalp to avoid harming the client. In addition, they should have a proper understanding of safety measures and precautions so that their clients are protected.
- Hairdressers/stylists/employees must carry out patch tests
In addition to the above, hairdressers and stylists must carry out patch tests before applying products for colouring. Under the law, clients must undergo hair strand testing before hair dyes are applied to their hair, so the hairdresser and stylist will know that the chemicals don’t cause damage or an allergic reaction. Even organic dyes require patch testing.
- Products must be properly disposed of
Salons are also supposed to use and store chemicals properly. In addition to this, they must also dispose of products properly under the COSHH (Control of Substances Hazardous to Health Regulations) Act of 2002. It pertains to peroxide, perms, and other hazardous chemicals, as they can harm the environment if not correctly disposed of.
- Periodic testing of appliances
Another policy that salons must follow is the periodic testing of appliances. Electrical gadgets and appliances must be tested and maintained according to the law of use and provision of work equipment.
It is clear that if any of these policies are not followed or adhered to by the salon or hairdresser, and it has resulted in harm to your person, you are entitled to compensation. However, you can get help and advice from a solicitor right away, especially one well-versed with hairdressing or beauty treatment claims, so you know what steps to take.