Chemical hair services (colour, bleach, perms) Risk Assessment Template

Typical hazards & measures

• Water temperature or pressure failure during rinse — Check building notices; avoid booking heavy chemical services during maintenance windows. Keep a backup basin and portable eyewash available; if failure occurs, stop process safely, cool-rinse as possible, and reschedule with clear notes to protect hair and scalp.
• Incorrect mixing ratios or order — Weigh with digital scales, follow label ratios, add developer after powder, and mix to a smooth, lump-free consistency. Never use metal bowls/whisks with persulfates; remix fresh if standing time is exceeded and never return leftovers to original containers.
• Chemical scalp irritation or burns — Use on-scalp formulas only where indicated; assess scalp integrity first. Select developer strength by hair condition, set timers, and check every 5–10 mins. At any burning, remove product and cool-rinse thoroughly, apply pH-balancing aftercare, record details, and adjust plan next visit.
• Fire risk from flammables and ignition sources — Store aerosols/alcohols away from heat; keep dryers/straighteners off capes and unplug when not in use. Maintain clear exits, serviced extinguishers and a no-smoking policy; brief staff on electrical/aerosol fire response and never use heat over volatile products.
• Neutraliser errors in perms — Use fresh neutraliser at correct volume; saturate evenly and observe full contact time. Rinse thoroughly to remove residues, avoid brand mixing mid-service, check elastic recovery on a test curl, and coach clients on aftercare and first-wash timing for best longevity.