With 14 confirmed cases of Coronavirus in Australia – and many more suspected cases currently in quarantine – salons and clinics across the country are weighing up the most effective methods of dealing with the risk, while also creating a safe environment for both their staff and customers.
Given that Coronavirus is extremely contagious, spreading via respiratory droplets that can travel up to six feet from someone who is sneezing or coughing, it’s understandable that salon owners are anxious about safeguarding their business and their reputation.
Last week, make-up giant Sephora announced they were suspending all beauty services and make-overs. “In view on the ongoing Novel Coronavirus situation, Sephora would like to reiterate that the health and wellbeing of our customers and our cast is of paramount importance,” the brand said in a statement. “All custom makeover services and makeup lessons will be suspended until further notice.”
Meanwhile, a significant number of nail salon owners have requested all clients wear masks for the duration of their appointment, in a bid to avoid any potential transmission of the virus.
According to a representative from the Department of Health, the best ways to avoid transmission of the virus is to “wash your hands often with soap and water, and use a tissue to cover your mouth when you cough or sneeze. You must also avoid close contact with others, such as touching.”
Given that the very nature of beauty and skincare involves close proximity and touching between client and therapist, below are some tips for protecting your staff, clients and business.
- If you plan on continuing providing makeup services, wear gloves, wear a mask and use antiseptic cleaner on all brushes before and after every client
- Have customers confirm whether they have visited mainland China recently. If they have, request that they reschedule their appointment 14 days after their arrival in Australia
- Offer mandatory leave to any staff that have traveled to mainland China in recent months. Highlight to customers that this is the case
- Have all staff wear masks and gloves where possible
- Take customers’ temperature upon their arrival. If they show a fever, kindly as them to reschedule. Do the same for your staff
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