Health and Safety

COSHH, patch testing, infection control, fire safety and waste disposal

15 guides

Free COSHH guide for self-employed hairdressers. What assessments you need, which chemicals to list, and how to stay legal.

COSHH rules for mobile and home-based beauty workers. How to do assessments when you don't have a fixed salon. Plain English.

Are patch tests legally required in the UK? What happens if a client reacts and you skipped it. Know your obligations.

Infection control rules for UK beauty salons. Sterilisation methods, tool cleaning, and what your local council expects.

Do you need a fire risk assessment for your beauty business? What the law says for home salons, rented rooms and mobile workers.

How to dispose of beauty waste legally in the UK. Sharps, chemicals, cotton waste and wax strips -- what goes where.

Do you need PAT testing as a self-employed beautician? What equipment needs testing, how often, and what it costs.

Mental health guidance for self-employed beauty workers. Burnout, isolation, boundaries and where to get free support in the UK.

Lone working safety for mobile beauty workers. Risk assessments, check-in systems, and how to protect yourself on home visits.

How to run a more sustainable beauty business. Practical swaps, waste reduction and eco choices that won't break the bank.

Blood-borne virus awareness and sharps safety for barbers. What training you need and how to handle cuts and needle incidents.

How barbers support men's mental health in the UK. Training options, what to say, and how to signpost without being a counsellor.

Chemical risks for pregnant hairdressers and beauticians. Which products to avoid, your rights, and how to keep working safely.

Occupational health risks for beauty workers. How to prevent hand dermatitis, back pain and repetitive strain before they stop you working.

Income protection and personal accident insurance for self-employed beauty workers. What happens to your income if you can't work.

Want to sponsor this section? Learn more