Hairdressers and barbers are being reminded that they must wear visors and face coverings to protect themselves and their customers from coronavirus.

Cornwall Council’s Covid Enforcement Team is working closely with businesses across the county to help them adjust to the current restrictions.

Since lockdown ended, the council has received several complaints regarding hairdressers and barbers not wearing the appropriate protective equipment.

Salons and barber shops are expected to be very busy in the run-up to Christmas. To help prevent the virus from spreading, it is essential that both staff and customers wear face coverings, says lead public health consultant for Cornwall Council Dr Ruth Goldstein.

It is mandatory in law for people providing a close contact service to wear a clear visor or goggles and a type II face mask. These are medical face masks that are made up of a protective 3-ply construction that prevents large particles from reaching the client or working surfaces.

Face coverings are mandatory for customers visiting nail, beauty, hair salons and barbers. They must also be worn by customers in massage centres as well as tattoo and piercing parlours.

Face coverings should not be removed unless it’s essential for a particular treatment – for example, for a treatment on the face area covered by the face covering.

“As we learn more about the way Covid is transmitted from person to person, one thing that is really clear is that in any setting where people are in close contact with another the virus will spread really quickly if people are not wearing the right personal protective equipment,” said Dr Goldstein.

Most businesses have been working really hard to keep their staff and their customers safe, said Cllr Rob Nolan, who’s Cornwall’s senior councillor for Public Protection.

“Members of our Covid Enforcement Team have been visiting premises to explain the legal requirements and help businesses adjust,” he said.

“We really don’t want to see a spike in cases over Christmas so we’re urging everyone to follow the rules now and do what they can to prevent the virus from spreading. We will always try to work with businesses but if they refuse to cooperate, enforcement action may be necessary.”

Businesses who do not comply with the current restrictions could face a fine.

Businesses can access advice and support regarding the latest restrictions at businessregulatorysupport.co.uk.

Alternatively, businesses can contact the Council’s Business Regulatory Support Hub at [email protected].

To report concerns about covid compliance call Cornwall Council on 0300 123 1118 or email [email protected].