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Steffi joined the business in July 2017 as Business Support Executive. Steffi completed her degree in Sports and ...
While hairdressing might not seem like a high-risk profession, it comes with its own set of health and safety challenges. Hairdressers work with sharp tools, electrical appliances, and potentially hazardous chemicals daily. Prolonged standing, repetitive movements, and exposure to fumes can also lead to chronic health issues if risks aren’t properly managed. According to the Health and Safety Executive (HSE), slips, trips, and falls are among the most common causes of workplace injuries, with salons being no exception.
Beyond personal safety, ensuring a secure working environment is vital for protecting clients. A simple oversight—such as failing to perform a patch test before a colour treatment—can result in allergic reactions, leading to distress for the client and potential legal consequences for the stylist. Personal injury claims can be costly, not just financially but also in terms of reputation. This is why implementing robust health and safety procedures, combined with specialist Hairdressing Insurance, is essential for any professional in the industry.
This health and safety overview for hairdressers will explore the key risks, industry regulations, and best practices for maintaining a safe and professional environment. By understanding these hazards and taking proactive measures, hairdressers can protect themselves, their clients, and their businesses.
Common health and safety hazards for hairdressers
As a hairdresser, you regularly handle water, chemicals, electrical appliances, and sharp tools. With this in mind, there are several health and safety risks to consider, including:
Chemical Hazards
Hair dyes, peroxide, bleaches, perm solutions, and straightening creams contain chemicals that can be harmful if inhaled or ingested. Daily exposure may lead to serious health issues affecting the immune, reproductive, neurological, and respiratory systems.
Slip and Fall Hazards
Slips and falls are a common cause of insurance claims in salons. Clipped hair, product spills, and wet floors pose slip risks, while loose cords from straighteners, dryers, and curling irons can be trip hazards.
Body Strain
Standing all day puts strain on the body, particularly the feet and back, increasing the risk of venous disorders and varicose veins. Hairstylists also perform repetitive hand and wrist movements, which can lead to stress injuries.
Electrical Shock and Fire
Blow dryers, straighteners, and other electrical tools are often used near water, increasing the risk of electric shocks or burns if equipment is wet or faulty. Regularly checking cords and plugs and keeping a maintenance log is essential.
Blades and Sharp Instruments
Scissors and razors can cause injuries if not handled carefully. Working with sharp tools increases the risk of cuts for both staff and clients, as well as potential blood transmission hazards.
Heavy Lifting and Moving Furniture
Lifting heavy salon supplies or moving furniture can strain back muscles, leading to pain and discomfort. Taking precautions when handling heavy items can help prevent musculoskeletal injuries.
Health and Safety regulations in hairdressing
To maintain a safe working environment, hairdressers must follow industry regulations and best practices.
Key Health and Safety Laws
- Health and Safety at Work Act (1974): This law places a duty on employers to ensure a safe working environment for all employees and clients. Hairdressers must comply with health and safety protocols to minimise risks.
- Control of Substances Hazardous to Health (COSHH): Hair products contain chemicals that can be harmful if not handled correctly. COSHH regulations require proper storage, handling, and disposal of these substances to reduce exposure.
- Reporting of Injuries, Diseases and Dangerous Occurrences Regulations (RIDDOR): Employers must report serious workplace accidents, injuries, and occupational illnesses to the Health and Safety Executive (HSE) under RIDDOR.
- Hair and Barber Council: This organisation promotes professional standards and hygiene within the industry, encouraging hairdressers to register for accreditation.
Safe work practices in hairdressing
The best way to avoid hazards in a salon is through prevention. By implementing clear procedures, hairdressers can minimise risks and create a safe working environment.
Risk Assessments
Regular risk assessments are essential to identify and control potential hazards. Employers should evaluate the salon’s layout, equipment, and daily tasks to pinpoint risks such as slippery floors, exposed electrical cords, or poorly ventilated areas with chemical fumes. A written risk assessment should outline hazards, who might be affected, and the steps taken to reduce the risks. For example, if a particular hair dye has a high likelihood of causing skin irritation, implementing a mandatory patch test before use can help prevent allergic reactions.
Emergency Procedures
Having clear emergency procedures ensures that staff can act quickly in dangerous situations. Every salon should have a fire safety plan, including the location of fire extinguishers, emergency exits, and evacuation routes. Additionally, protocols for dealing with chemical spills should be in place, such as providing protective gloves and having a designated area to handle hazardous substances safely. Regular fire drills and emergency response training can ensure that all staff know what to do in a crisis.
Training
Ongoing training is crucial for ensuring that all staff members understand how to prevent and respond to workplace hazards. Training should cover safe handling of chemicals, proper lifting techniques, and how to use electrical tools safely. It should also include customer safety measures, such as checking for contraindications before performing chemical treatments. New employees should receive thorough induction training, while existing staff should have refresher courses to stay updated with best practices.
First Aid
Salons must have a well-stocked first aid kit containing plasters, antiseptic wipes, burn treatments, and bandages. A trained first aider should always be present to handle minor injuries, such as cuts from scissors or burns from styling tools. Having a procedure for dealing with more serious incidents—such as a client fainting or an allergic reaction—ensures that immediate and appropriate care is provided. First aid training should be updated regularly to keep staff prepared for any medical emergency.
Client Safety
A client’s safety is just as important as the hairdresser’s. Patch testing before colour treatments can prevent allergic reactions, while proper consultation helps identify any pre-existing conditions that could affect a service. Maintaining a clean and hygienic salon is essential—sterilising tools, washing towels after each use, and ensuring workstations are tidy can help prevent infections and cross-contamination. Additionally, ensuring that chairs, sinks, and styling equipment are correctly adjusted to each client’s comfort reduces the risk of strain or injury.
By focusing on prevention and implementing structured procedures, hairdressers can create a safer salon environment for both staff and clients.
Get Specialist Hairdresser Insurance from Protectivity
However well prepared you are regarding health and safety compliance and procedures, there is a chance thing can go wrong with you facing an expensive claim.
The best way to protect yourself from these scenarios is with specialist hairdressing insurance, which Protectivity provides for hundreds of ambitious stylists just like you. We also offer barber’s insurance for those who cut men’s hair.
With our affordable cover, you can protect yourself and your business from loss, theft or damage of your own professional property and equipment; and any damage accidentally caused at the home of one of your clients.
If you’re a self-employed, freelance or mobile hairdresser, our Hairdressing Insurance has you covered. Get a quote today.
Get Hairdressing Insurance from Protectivity
*Disclaimer – This blog has been created as general information and should not be taken as advice. Make sure you have the correct level of insurance for your requirements and always review policy documentation. Information is factually accurate at the time of publishing but may have become out of date.
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