149 hairdressers and barber shops given approval to open which will re-employ around 503 people

The Ministry of Commerce and Trade together with the Ministry of Health has approved 149 hairdressers and barber shop applications which will re-employ around 503 people.

This includes 58 hairdressers and barber shops in the Central Division and 91 in the Western Division.

Minister for Commerce Faiyaz Koya says Business operators are reminded that they cannot operate as normal and normal has a new definition that requires everyone to adhere to COVID Safe Protocols.

The Ministry had earlier said that while hairdressers and barber shops remain high-risk, given the high customer interaction and its close contact services, the Ministry, in consultation with the Ministry of Health and Medical Services, has developed protocols for safe operations of hairdressing services to allow its continuity.

These protocols also apply to hairdressers and barber shops that are operating in Vanua Levu and maritime islands.

The hairdressers and barber shops in Viti Levu will need to apply to the Ministry for a Permit to Operate.

Permanent Secretary, Shaheen Ali says every business, irrespective of being in a containment or non-containment zone, still needs to adopt minimum protocols.

Hairdressers and barber shops in Viti Levu will not be allowed to operate until a permit has been issued. In order to get a permit, businesses need to firstly, agree and sign the Protocol for COVID-Safe Business Operations and Protocol for Safe Operations of Hairdressing Services and visit www.covidpass.mcttt.gov.fj to lodge the application.

The Protocol for Safe Operations of Hairdressing Services provides mandatory minimum parameters for safe operations.

These include infection control, such as sanitisation of all high-touch points, equipment, including scissors, combs, brushes, chairs, hair wash basin, between clients.

Employees and customers must wear masks at all times.

The operations can only be on an appointment basis, which must be staggered.

There should not be any crowding outside the shop and no walk-in customers should be served.

The store must operate on a maximum capacity of 50%.

The Ministry, together with the Fijian Competition and Consumer Commission and the Fiji Police Force are monitoring for compliance.

Continued breach of Protocols can lead to closure of business.

Non-compliance to the Protocols is an offence and can lead to a fine of up to $10,000 and/or imprisonment of up to 5 years.