Health and safety

Edit this page to get startedHealth and Safety Policy Beauty at 156 Effective Date: [Insert Date] Worker: [Your Full Name] Locations: Salon Premises & Home-Based Workspace 1. Purpose This policy outlines the commitment of Beauty at 156 to maintaining a safe, clean, and professional working environment at both the salon and home workspace. It ensures the health and safety of both the sole worker and clients. 2. Responsibilities As the sole worker, I am responsible for: Complying with all relevant health, safety, and hygiene regulations. Maintaining high standards in both the salon and home working environments. Ensuring safe use of tools, products, and equipment. Keeping up-to-date with industry best practices and legislation. 3. Working From Home – Additional Considerations A clean, private, and dedicated space is used for treatments. Clients are informed of home visit protocols and directions. Non-clients and pets are kept away from treatment areas. Professional standards and insurance cover are upheld in the home setting. 4. Risk Management Regular risk assessments are conducted for both locations. Slips, trips, and fall hazards are minimized through good housekeeping. Equipment is checked for damage and maintained properly. Hazardous substances are handled and stored according to COSHH guidelines. 5. Patch Testing Policy To protect clients from allergic reactions, patch testing is required for treatments involving: Hair and eyebrow tinting Lash lifts Certain skincare or chemical treatments (e.g., peels) Any new product that carries a risk of allergic reaction Patch Test Procedures: A patch test is required at least 48 hours prior to the first treatment. Tests are repeated if the client has: Not had the treatment in the last 6 months Had a change in medical condition Switched products or brands Patch test results are documented and signed by the client. No treatment will proceed without a valid patch test. 6. Hygiene and Infection Control All tools and equipment are cleaned, disinfected, or sterilized after every use. Disposable items (e.g., applicators, gloves) are used once and disposed of safely. Fresh towels and linens are provided for every client. Hands are sanitized before and after each treatment. 7. Fire and First Aid Smoke alarms and a fire extinguisher are installed and regularly tested. A stocked first aid kit is kept on-site. Emergency exits are accessible. Electrical appliances are unplugged when not in use. 8. Illness and COVID-19 Measures Clients must reschedule if they have symptoms of contagious illness. The treatment area is cleaned and disinfected between appointments. Ventilation is maintained in treatment spaces. Industry and public health guidelines are followed. 9. Record Keeping Treatment records, patch test logs, and risk assessments are kept securely. All product safety data sheets (COSHH) are available on-site. 10. Policy Review This policy will be reviewed annually or after any significant changes to practice, regulations, or location.