Hairstylists awaiting clarity on rules for level 2
There is good news for those desperate for a haircut under level 2 rules but going to the hairdresser or barber could be a little different.
Under level 2 rules outlined by Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern yesterday, hairdressers and barbers will be able to resume operations but must wear PPE (Personal Protective Equipment).
Prior to the announcement, many business owners were unsure whether they would be able to open at all during level 2, given the proximity they must work in with clients.
South Canterbury Hairdressers’ Collective founder and Cocoon Hair Salon owner Felicity Bruce said she was ‘‘very excited’’ about re-opening after having to cancel 700 appointments.
Bruce said she was unsure exactly what PPE was required and whether they would need to wear disposable aprons or full body suits. Those were details she hoped to have answers to as soon as possible.
At the previous level 2 alert, Bruce said she had removed magazines from the salon and would continue to limit contact between customer and surfaces once they re-opened.
‘‘We will be cleaning, sanitising and disinfecting,’’ she said.
New Zealand Association of Registered Hairdressers chair Niq James said the association had submitted to the Government what it thought PPE should involve but had to wait for approval.
He said the association researched overseas, and canvassed members on what they thought would be appropriate, this included gloves and masks.
He said most barbers already wore gloves when cutting short hair as they protect them from getting splinters in their hands.
Three Government departments were involved in working together to come up with a final decision on the PPE rules for the association. They were the Ministry of Health, Ministry of Business Innovation and Employment and Worksafe, James said.
Being forward thinking the association had sourced PPE to supply its members once what was required was known, he said.