My salon has received 100% rating in my salon for the past 15 years, but the inspector said some things have changed. Enlighten me!

Dana T wrote:

I need to know the newest procedures for sanitation in the salon.

Things have changed and sometimes I am lost. My salon has received 100% rating in my salon for the past 15 years, but the inspector said some things have changed. Enlighten me!

Hi Dana,

Yes, things have changed and continue to change; as communicable diseases change and mutate, as new chemical agents are created and tested, sanitation standards also must evolve. But fear not… it’s all good.

You must be doing something right when you are rating at a 100% for fifteen years. Each state has their own sanitation rules and regulations but some things are universal. Allow me to reiterate your good salon sanitation habits.

Here are some pointers concerning contagious disease.

Always do:

*remember that a communicable disease is transmitted from one person to another.

*Pus is a sign of infection.

*Aids is caused by the HIV virus and can be transmitted by sharp implements.

*Bacteria and viruses can enter the body through broken skin.

If you or any of your associates come across a client that may have a contagious disease, do not perform any service and do not try to medicate or diagnose, always refer your client to a physician.

Here are some sanitation pointers:

*Removing pathogens and other substances from tools or surfaces is called decontamination.

*All disinfectants must be approved by each individual state and the EPA.

*Every product used in the salon should have a MSDA (material safety data sheet).

*A disinfectant that is formulated for hospitals and normally used in salons must be

pseudomonacidal, bactericidal, fungicicdal, and virucidal.

*Clean all implements before soaking in any disinfectant.

*Mix disinfectants with water and change them once a day.

*Always store clean and disinfected implements in a clean and covered container.

*Wash your linens and drapes in bleach and store them in a dry, clean and covered place.

*Disinfect your tools and implements after each client.