Barbers, beauticians cautioned

Acting Chief Environmental Health Officer Yolanda Penn has found it necessary to issue a public reminder for all nail technicians, hair stylists and barbers to be certified or licensed in order to operate in the British Virgin Islands.

Penn noted that the Public Health Act/Regulations empowers her division to inspect businesses being operated by barbers, hairdressers, and beauticians.

“All precautions must be taken to ensure no spread of head lice and fungal infections,” she said.

“We want to ensure that salons are doing all in their power to mitigate fungal infections and other diseases that persons are more vulnerable to in salons and barber shops.”

Penn further said all tools including combs, brushes and clippers must be disinfected after each use, and/or stored in disinfectant solution when not in use.

The Acting Chief Environmental Health Officer also said grooming items that may have fallen on the floor while in use must also be disinfected before further use. Further, stylists must also wash their hands after eating and before servicing clients.

According to a media release from the Government Information Service, stylists and barbers are to display their certificate or licence in a visible location in the salon or shop. “Patrons are advised to solicit service from licenced stylists,” it further said.