Hairdressers and barbers to re-open

Hairdressers and barbers are preparing to re-open on 15 July under the Scottish Government’s route map out of lockdown.

To ensure salons can safely re-open new guidance has been published for the sector.

The guidance 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

• the 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

Minister for Business, Fair Work and Skills Jamie Hepburn said:

“The re-opening of hairdressers and barbers next week signals a further step out of lockdown for our economy and shows that we continue to make progress in successfully suppressing coronavirus (COVID-19).

“If everyone sticks to the rules we will be able to drive the virus down further and live less restricted lives in the weeks and months ahead.

“Our guidance, developed in partnership with employers, industry bodies and trades unions, provides the information these businesses need to ensure the safety of staff and customers as they re-open. People should look for those safety measures and be aware of the need to follow the FACTS at all times when out in the community. If you don’t see those safety measures, or you don’t feel you can follow appropriate hygiene rules, than don’t take the risk.

“We are providing grant support worth over £1 billion to businesses as part of a wider support package worth over £2.3 billion and we will continue to do all we can to support this vital sector.”

Hilary Hall, chief executive of the National Hair and Beauty Federation, said:

“The Scottish hair and beauty industry generates a turnover of over £600 million, which is 8% of the UK total. 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 employees is their top priority so our members have already been preparing their salons to make them safe to re-open. They are reporting that they are fully booked for the near future which is positive news and should mean that businesses can recover and grow from the pandemic.”

Background:

Read the guidance for hairdressers and barbers

Remember FACTS for a safer Scotland.