Hairdressers and barber shops in Viti Levu can now apply for a permit to operate

The Ministry of Commerce and Trade is now considering safe operations of hairdressers and barber shops in Viti Levu.

The Ministry says 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 has developed protocols for safe operations of Hairdressing Services to allow its continuity.

In addition, the hairdressers and barber shops in Viti Levu will need to apply with the Ministry for a Permit to Operate.

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 Permanent Secretary for Commerce and Trade, Shaheen Ali says the Protocol for Safe Operations of Hairdressing Services provides mandatory minimum parameters for safe operations and these include infection control, such as sanitisation of all high-touch points, equipment, including scissors, combs, brushes, chairs, hair wash basin, between clients.

Ali says all employees and customers must wear masks at all times and the operations can only be on an appointment basis, which must be staggered.

He says there should not be any crowding outside the shop and no walk-in customers should be served adding the store must operate on a maximum capacity of 50 percent.

The Ministry, together with the Fijian Competition and Consumer Commission and Police, will continue monitoring for compliance.

Continued breach of protocols can lead to closure of business.

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