Disinfection, Sanitation & Safety

Sanitation reduces germs on a surface to a safe level, usually with soap and water.

Disinfection destroys most disease-causing organisms on hard, non-porous surfaces but not all spores.

Sterilization destroys all microbial life, including spores, and generally requires an autoclave.

Every implement must be cleaned of hair and debris before it can be effectively disinfected.

Use only EPA-registered disinfectants and follow the manufacturer's label exactly.

Mix concentrates to the precise dilution stated on the label, never stronger or weaker.

Keep implements fully wet for the entire contact (dwell) time listed on the label.

Discard and replace disinfectant solution when it becomes cloudy or dirty, at least daily.

Immerse combs, shears, and clips in a covered container deep enough to cover them fully.

Clean electrical clippers of hair and disinfect with an approved spray or wipe, never immersion.

Store disinfected tools clean and dry in a covered, disinfected container, away from soiled tools.

Dispense powders, creams, and lotions with a clean spatula or shaker, never with fingers.

Treat all human blood and body fluids as potentially infectious (universal precautions).

If a cut occurs, stop the service, put on single-use gloves, and control the bleeding.

Clean and then disinfect blood-contaminated surfaces with a product effective against bloodborne pathogens.

Discard blood-soiled disposables in a sealed bag and place used blades in a sharps container.

Disinfect a fixed-blade straight razor between every client; discard single-use blades after one use.

Wash hands before and after every client and cover any cuts on the hands.

Keep Safety Data Sheets (SDS) accessible for all chemical products used in the shop.

Maintain good ventilation to reduce buildup of fumes and airborne particles.

Decline service and refer to a physician when a client shows signs of infection or open sores.