Project Aim
To evaluate the present state of health and safety management practices used to reduce the risk of injury and disease in the Hairdressing Industry.
Project Outcomes
A written evaluation of the present state of health and safety management practices used to reduce the risk of injury and disease in the hairdressing industry, (particularly in relation to the prevention of musculoskeletal disorders and chemical exposures) and written advice on possible future actions that the Industry, the Department of Labour, employers, workers and other industry participants could take to reduce these risks.
Purpose
The purpose of this evaluation was to gather information from the Industry and identify areas where improvements in harm prevention can be made.
Methodology
This report is based mainly on anecdotal information gathered from people working in or supporting the Industry.
Visits were made to a number of Hairdressing Salons and Training Schools to talk to and observe hairdressers, apprentices and trainees performing hairdressing tasks.
A number of telephone interviews were held.
Dermatologists (including one from Australia), Occupational Physicians, Physiotherapists and Ergonomists were consulted.
Discussions were held with Industry Organisations including the NZ Association of Registered Hairdressers and the NZ Hairdressing Industry Training Organisation Inc.
A limited literature search was made.