Ready to get back to business? COVID-19 has been a disruptive force for months and salons are finally getting the opportunity to reopen their doors as states are gradually easing restrictions and transitioning into the “new normal.” Salon owners are undoubtedly hopeful and excited about this development, but perhaps cautiously optimistic as well.
You may be wondering what the best strategy is when it comes to reopening your salon - especially with the goal being to ensure safety above all else. Safety measures, such as the use of personal protective equipment (PPE) materials and safety signage, are an absolute must. Implementation requires careful thought and certain considerations.
Know State Requirements Regarding Reopening
As you prepare to reopen your salon amidst the COVID-19 pandemic, it’s crucial to begin by finding out state requirements regarding signage for entrances, exits, and shopfronts. In general, many states have established signage requirements at every salon door, which helps to keep employees and customers informed and provide some peace-of-mind about feeling safe in your salon. If you are unsure about state requirements for reopening your salon, check out the state and city websites, and try official communication lines from your state health department or governor for industry-specific guidelines and guidance.
Set Up Your Salon for Social Distancing
Social distancing is a major practice during this pandemic, and different states have established mandates that place limits on the number of people that can enter a salon. It’s essential to not only know your state’s requirements regarding social distancing, but also ensure that employees and customers are aware as well. You may need to create the space to accommodate proper social distancing by removing tables or displays, along with waiting areas. Make use of self-standing signs to provide clear information to customers about where to stand or sit, and be sure to properly measure and indicate the distance (6 feet apart) of separation. Floor signs or decals are a great way to establish safe social distancing and you can keep it interesting with language such as “Be Smart, Sit Apart.” How about a sign outside that says, “Park Here, We’ll Be Right There” to encourage waiting customers to remain in their cars and prevent congregating? Your signs need to be eye-catching, concise, and clear.
Maintain Proper Communication With Signage
Communication is key during COVID-19, and setting up your salon with safety signage is essential for maintaining safety and reducing health risks. The lines of communication should be completely open, and salon owners should make a concerted effort to connect with customers about news and helpful guidelines regarding COVID-19. Signage is an effective tool to communicate and make new salon rules and health guidelines clear. Post window signage with content reminding customers about social distancing protocol, as well as information on the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC’s) guidelines regarding cleanliness and COVID-19 prevention.
Get PPE Signage For Your Salon
While you are reopening your salon, the COVID-19 pandemic is still going on. Staying safe is crucial, and the best safety practices should be embraced. The safety of workers is just as important as that of customers, which makes the use of personal protective equipment (PPE) essential. Working safely during this pandemic could mean the difference between life and death. Post signage advising workers to wear a face mask when working, and remind customers when entering the salon to refrain from entering if they are ill or symptomatic in order to limit exposure. A wall decal could prove ideal as a beneficial reminder that gloves should be worn by workers for routine tasks, as well as high-touch activities like cleaning equipment.
As you get ready to reopen your salon, ensure that the safety of workers and customers is a top priority. It’s important to build confidence in setting up your salon with the proper safety signage. You cannot throw caution to the wind during a global pandemic. Instead, make safety an even greater mission of your salon, for the sake of your workers, customers, and business. If you need PPE materials and safety signage for your reopening, the team at Ironmark is here to help. Get in touch today or check out our online store to get the materials you need.
