The government has recently announced that we will be able to visit our favourite hairdresser and barber on the 4th of July. For some, it means the end of overgrown hair, outgrown roots or a crazy unmaintained beard. But what can we really expect post-lockdown? What are the restrictions put in place to protect customers and staff against the virus?
Prepping
Most salons have been preparing for a few months to make sure they are ready once the government allow them to open their doors once again. In fact, many have started building a waiting list to avoid being overwhelmed. Buying new and adequate equipment such as hair combs, scissors or brushes may be needed to start fresh.
In terms of safety, stocking up on PPE could be the norm now with plastic visors, gloves and face masks for staff and hand sanitizing stations for customers. You can also expect the salons to look slightly different with a two meters gap between chairs and no waiting area.
The new normal
Because of social distancing still in place, it would probably be asked of you to wait for your appointment in your car or outside to avoid getting too close to each other. A form will probably need to be filled out to answer some general questions about your health and a disposable mask may be given to you depending on salons. Your appointment could last longer as there will be much more safety requirements.
Unfortunately, you probably won’t have access to magazines or even drinks such as coffee or tea, at least in a reusable cup, or make long conversations with your hairdresser. Most likely, clients will have to arrive while keeping their bags and coats to a minimum to avoid bringing possible infected items into the salon.
Payment will be cashless; it is expected that clients will have to use contactless payment or pre-pay apps.
Mobile hairdressers are also set to go back to work on the 4th of July, the Freelance Association of Hairdressers has advised that “The Government do not differentiate between sectors in our industry. When they say hairdressers, they mean all hairdressers, salons and freelance/mobile together.” However, there are obvious risks when going into people’s houses to cut their hair. It’s likely they will only operate at a 50% capacity at first.
All these precautions may seem daunting for some, although it’s important to remember that it’s a safety issue and it needs to be taken seriously.