West Virginia Salon Health & Safety
West Virginia sanitation rules protect clients from infection. This chapter covers disinfection, disposables, and safe practices.
Single-use items
Porous single-use items such as nail files, buffers, and wooden sticks cannot be disinfected and must be discarded after one client. Wax applicators are used once and not re-dipped into the pot. Using disposables only once is a simple, reliable barrier against infection.
Blood exposure procedures
If a client is cut and bleeds, the practitioner stops the service, uses gloves and first aid, cleans and disinfects any contaminated tools and surfaces, and disposes of contaminated disposables properly. This limits the spread of bloodborne pathogens and is central to shop inspections.
Linens and equipment
A clean towel or drape is provided for each client, and soiled linens are stored covered and away from clean supplies. Pedicure foot spas are drained, cleaned, and disinfected after each client. These routines keep a shop compliant with the board's standards.
State-specific details
State exam facts
- State regulator
- West Virginia State Board of Barbers and Cosmetologists
- Exam vendor
- Prov (NIC exams; the Board's older packet references DL Roope — confirm current vendor)
- Prelicensing education
- 1,800 hours
How many training hours does West Virginia require for a cosmetology license?
West Virginia requires 1,800 hours at an approved school.
Who licenses cosmetologists in West Virginia?
The West Virginia State Board of Barbers and Cosmetologists licenses cosmetologists. The Board's current 'How To Become Licensed' page names Prov as the NIC exam vendor, though an older packet references DL Roope — confirm the current vendor with the Board before scheduling.
Does West Virginia still require a practical exam?
Yes. West Virginia requires both the NIC written exam and a hands-on NIC practical exam.
Sources: https://wvbbc.com/License-Services/How-To-Become-Licensed, https://wvbbc.com/Portals/WVBBC/docs/Cosmetology%20Examination%20Packet.pdf
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