What are the current rules about face masks for salon owners?

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Posted January 20, 2021

The rules regarding face masks to reduce the spread of COVID-19 are regularly being reviewed and updated.

Over recent months, there has been an increased focus from public health advice on the wearing of face masks to reduce the spread of COVID-19, with requirements changing as outbreaks occur or decline.

The below states currently have mandatory mask-wearing requirements.  The South Australian government recommends that face masks are worn in public if people are unable to physically distance themselves.  Employers in other states and territories should conduct their own risk assessment and determine whether they will encourage their staff and clients to wear a face mask when working or receiving a service in the salon.

Queensland

From 6pm on 11 January 2021 until 1am on 22 January 2021, face masks are required in indoor spaces. This requirement applies in the local government areas of Brisbane, Moreton Bay, Ipswich, Redlands and Logan, to people who are from these areas or who have been in these areas at any time from 7:00am on 2 January 2021 unless 14 days have passed since the person was last in the area.

Masks can be removed by clients and workers to the extent that it is not reasonably practicable for that service to be provided or received while wearing a face mask. However, masks should be worn as soon as possible after the service is complete.

The Queensland Government have a webpage about face masks for more information.

 

Victoria

From 11:59pm on 17 January 2021, face masks are only required in large retail shops such as supermarkets or indoor shopping centres, on public transport or in ride sharing vehicles, airports and on planes or when a physical distance of 1.5 metres cannot be maintained.

To reduce the risk of spreading COVID-19, salon owners should encourage clients and staff to wear masks during the service if possible.

More information is available here.

 

New South Wales

From 3 January 2021, face masks are mandatory in a number of indoor spaces in Greater Sydney, Wollongong, the Blue Mountains and the Central Coast, including in hair and beauty premises.

Face masks can be removed if it is necessary for the proper provision of the goods or service, such as where a person is receiving a facial or a beard trim.  The face mask must be worn again as soon as the service is completed.

NSW Health are strongly recommending people to wear a face mask where a distance of 1.5 metres cannot be maintained.

This website has further guidance.

 

Further advice or assistance

Our advisers are ready to answer your questions. For advice on this topic, or any other workplace relations matter, please call the HABA Advice Line on 02 9221 9911.