Some barber shops and hairdressers now open in Viti Levu, and they are expected to follow the COVID safe protocol at all times

Some high risk businesses like hairdressers and barber shops are now open in Viti Levu, and the owners and employees have to strictly adhere to the COVID protocols set for these outlets.

The Ministry of Commerce, Trade, Tourism and Transport has started giving out the approvals based on the protocols and Legend FM News noticed some barber shops and haidressers are now open in the Suva area.

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 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.

The Government says this move takes into consideration the socio-economic imperative to allow more Fijian businesses to resume safe operations and earn a living, even in containment areas, with health and safety being paramount.

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 percent.

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.