Hair cutting & barbering Risk Assessment Template

Typical hazards & measures

• Fainting or vasovagal episodes — Watch for pallor, sweating or dizziness; stop the service, recline the chair, and offer water and fresh air. Avoid tight capes; don’t lock knees during long beard shaves; record the event and suggest a snack before future appointments if prone.
• Chemical disinfectant exposure — Mix Barbicide/disinfectants to label strength, wear gloves for decanting, and avoid splashes; label bottles, keep SDS accessible, and change solutions daily. Provide hand care (wash, dry, emollients) to reduce dermatitis from frequent wet work.
• Fire risk (flammables and ignition) — Store alcohol-based aftershaves and aerosols away from heat; keep dryers/straighteners off flammable surfaces; unplug when not in use. Maintain clear exits, serviced extinguishers, and a no-smoking policy; brief staff on electrical and aerosol fire response.
• Blood-borne pathogen exposure — Wear gloves for shaves/bleeding risk, use disposable blades, and disinfect tools between clients. If exposure occurs, stop service, wash, dress, complete incident form, and follow post-exposure protocol with medical advice and client communication as appropriate.
• Ear and neckline lacerations — Work slowly around ears with comb control; keep scissor tips angled away from the pinna and use guards for necklines. Ask the client to stay still; pause if they move; use mirrors to check angles and finish with guarded razors only where skin is flat.