Posted on: Thursday 20 August 2020
Following the announcement by Welsh Government that businesses providing close contact services such as barbers and hairdressers can open again, Torfaen Council’s Public Protection Service have been visiting barbers to offer advice and guidance on COVID-19 controls.
Without adequate controls in place, these businesses could present a high risk to their customers and staff. Over 20 premises across the borough were visited providing practical advice on:
- correct use of protective equipment
- cleaning and disinfection procedures
- ensuring social distancing
- using appointment systems to avoid customers waiting at the premises
- recording customer contact details for Track and Trace purposes
Councillor Mandy Owen, executive member for the environment, said: “Shop owners were given practical advice by officers, provided with copies of guidance and signposted to useful resources on the Welsh Government’s website”
“During the visits, owners were advised of any improvements needed to comply with the law and best practice standards. In most cases officers have been able to confirm that the advice has been taken on-board. However, one barber failed to make the necessary improvements and was found to be breaching the rules after the initial visit. As a result, a legal notice was served on the business requiring that they take steps to achieve compliance. Officers will be undertaking further follow up checks to the business.”
“It was reassuring that the majority of barbers had adopted safe practices and were operating responsibly. The council’s officers always try to support businesses to achieve compliance through working together. However, where businesses do not do the right thing officers will not hesitate to take the necessary action in the interest of public protection.”
“I would like to offer my thanks to the officers and businesses working hard during these difficult times to help Torfaen to return safely to a new normal.”
If you have any concerns about how a business is operating during Covid-19 contact 01495 762200 or email
commercial.services@torfaen.gov.uk