STANDARD OPERATING PROCEDURES FOR THE WELLNESS AND BEAUTY

ENTERPRISES DURING THE COVID-19 OUTBREAK

A PROPOSAL BY THE UGANDA HAIR AND BEAUTY ALLIANCE (UHABA)

JUNE 2020
1.0 Introduction
The Uganda Hair and Beauty Alliance (UHABA) have proposed a protocol on the preparedness and
response for Covid-19 outbreak for the Wellness and Beauty industry in Uganda, mainly to assist and
guide the enterprises under this industry along the value chain during the Covid 19 post lockdown
situation. The body strongly recommends that the enterprises under the Wellness and Beauty industry
along the chain follow these guidelines to be a part of the mitigation and recovery mission for the
betterment of the industry.
The management of these establishments under these sections must educate all categories of their clients
and staff of the critical importance of these procedures designed to make sector operations safe for both
clients and staff. It must also be noted that any instructions issued by the government from time to time
should be binding.

2.0 Wellness and Beauty Establishments:

Wellness and Beauty establishments are susceptible to the contagion because they are visited daily by
large numbers of people from different geographical horizons that interact among themselves,
management and with employees. Attention should be made to the aspects of Wellness and Beauty
establishments and the interactions specific to these establishments like client- client, client-staff and
staff-staff.

2.1 Social distancing measures, hand cleaning, respiratory hygiene

in and Wellness and Beauty facilities
Social distancing measures together with frequent hand hygiene and respiratory etiquette are the main
measures to prevent transmission of COVID-19. Although it is probable that clients are already familiar
with these measures, they should be reminded as a form of safety.
The following measures that have been communicated by the Ministry of Health, Local Health
Authorities, and World Health Organization should be strictly adhered to all times:

2.1.1 Social distancing includes refraining from hugging & shaking hands with clients and among fellow
staff.

2.1.2 Hand hygiene means regularly and thoroughly cleaning hands with an alcohol- based hand rub or
washing them with soap and water. Also avoid touching eyes, nose, and mouth. Hand disinfection is
indicated after exchanging objects (money, debit cards etc.) with clients.

2.1.3 (a) Respiratory etiquette means covering mouth and nose with bent elbow or tissue when coughing
or sneezing. The used tissue should be disposed of immediately in a bin with a lid.
(b) Face Masks are mandatory for all clients and staff. They must be worn at all times within the Wellness
and Beauty establishment by all clients and staff.
2.1.4 All indoor areas such as entrances, lobbies, corridors, staircases, escalators, elevators, security guard
booths, office rooms, locker rooms, meeting rooms, workstations, rest rooms, washrooms and wash areas
should be mopped with water, soap disinfectant (1% sodium hypochlorite or phenolic disinfectants)/
bleach.

2.1.5 For metallic surfaces like door handles, security locks, keys etc. 70% alcohol can be used to wipe
down surfaces where the use of bleach is not suitable.
2.1.6 Kindly refer to the WHO guidelines, central government and local health authorities for additional
information on appropriate disinfectants.

2.1.7 Based on the capacity that allows adequate social distancing levels, the establishment will
define/pre-plan the operational timings of each client and advises the clients accordingly.

2.2 Team Leaders

Appoint a team headed by a Rapid Response Leader, ideally a supervisor of the establishment with
representatives from each of the operational departments where applicable. The management of the
establishment should adopt a responsible attitude to address the health threat of COVID-19.

2.2.1. Action plan

The Management of Wellness and Beauty establishments should establish an action plan tailored to the
situation and implement it in accordance with the recommendations of local and national public health
authorities with the aim to prevent cases, effectively manage cases, and mitigate impact among clients
and staff, including cleaning and disinfection of areas occupied or accessed by any ill persons.
The plan which may incorporate flexi-time and shift schedules hand in hand with client appointment
schedules should be adopted as a consequence of new guidance, procedures or regulations issued by the
pertinent authorities.

2.2.2. Mobilization of resources

The Rapid Response Personnel should avail sufficient human and economic resources to ensure that the
action plan can be implemented rapidly and effectively.
The action plan should also include the provision of equipment and procedures developed in collaboration
with local health authorities for the management of suspected case(s) and their possible contacts.

2.2.3. Supervision
The implementation of the action plan and the effectiveness of the measures undertaken should be
evaluated frequently to verify compliance, identify and correct gaps, and adapt the plan to a more
practical experience.
A Crisis Team where possible involving members of each relevant department can support team leaders
in the implementation of the action plan and timely identification of required adjustments.
Team should frequently evaluate, identify gaps and adjust in accordance to ensure the practicality and
also to make sure that there is consistent continuation and be alert on unusual and notable incidents.

2.2.4. Logbook of actions

It is advisable to keep a logbook of the important actions and measures carried out and to record them in
enough detail (e.g. including date and time a disinfectant was used, by whom, where, etc.). This logbook
can be used to improve the actions implemented.

2.2.5. Communication
Communication should be maintained between team leaders and staff in charge of the different sections in
order to pre-define an information policy for clients as well as to rapidly provide and obtain information
on incidents that may arise in the establishment and to know the status of the situation at all times.
Team leaders should consistently provide guidelines to the staff on how they should communicate the
action plan to clients and other stakeholders can ensure alignment consistency.
Short documents or informative posters that amplify the key messages among client and staff, including:
 a) Promoting of hand washing
b) Respiratory hygiene
c) Basic Hygiene practices
d) Coughing etiquette
e) Contact information of key staff personnel
f) Emergency Telephone number on basic hygiene practice and COVID-19, in different languages,
are useful information tools and must be clearly displayed in the establishments.
It is mandatory to have an up-to-date list of the contact information of the staff, including emergency
telephone numbers.

2.2.6. Training and information

Team Leaders should inform all staffs of the measures to be adopted and the measures that could protect
their health and that of others including the recommendation to stay home and seek medical attention if
they have respiratory symptoms, such as coughing or shortness of breath.
They should organize information briefings that should cover all the basic protective measures against
COVID-19 and the signs and symptoms of the disease. Training may be needed for specific procedures.

2.2.7 Fumigation and Health Inspection

As part of the pre-opening procedures, all enterprises are required to conduct a comprehensive fumigation
exercise of the property and general health inspection of staff. The establishment must present evidence
that validates that this exercise was done.

2.3 Reception
2.3.1. Information and communication
a) Reception desk staff should be sufficiently informed about COVID-19 so that they can safely
carry out their assigned tasks and prevent the possible spread of COVID-19 within the
establishment.
b) They should be capable of informing clients who inquire about the establishment’s policy in
terms of the preventive measures established or other services that clients may require (for
example, medical and first aid services available in the area or at the establishment itself).
c) They should also be able to advise clients with respiratory symptoms to stay within the
establishment until the ministry of health officials arrive. The Team leader should arrange
immediately as well as provide basic hygiene recommendations whenever asked.
d) Reception desk staff, if possible, should not be with any underlying health conditions.
e) Reception staff are advised to use face guards & gloves at all times.
f) Reception desk staff must take all necessary precautions, including physical distancing.
g) Reception staff should consider removing all unnecessary items such as magazines, newspapers,
service menus, any other unnecessary paper products and decor. Wipe down all seats and tables;
cloth chairs cannot be properly cleaned and disinfected, using a plastic cover should be
considered.
h) Reception Desk staff should be familiar with the admission on appointment policy in the event of
a suspected case of COVID-19.
i) The reception desk should have immediately available the telephone numbers of the health
authorities, medical centers, public and private hospitals, and assistance centres for use whenever
there is the possibility that a client may be ill.
j) e) Ensure that all door handles are disinfected regularly with alcohol water solution.
k) Maintain an appointment book and a client log with contact details for tracking and tracing and
client management
2.3.2. Necessary equipment and medical kit at the reception desk
The reception desk should have a medical kit that includes the following items:
a) Germicidal disinfectant/wipes for surface cleaning Tissues.
b) Hand sanitizer or water& Soap station
c) Face/eye masks (separate or combined, face shield, goggles). Note that disposable face masks and
Gloves can only be used once (disposable)
d) Protective apron (disposable)
e) Uniforms should be introduced so that staff can change clothes once they are on the job, so that they
don’t take the same clothes home.
f) Biohazard disposable waste bag

2.3.3 Procedure to be followed while attending to clients:

While observing regulations in relation to health and safety, it is proposed that the Wellness and Beauty
establishment must admit clients on appointment only basis and any accompanying persons (Adult/Child)
that are not on appointment or clients should not be granted access to premises.

a) All staff in the reception area must wear a face mask as directed by the health authorities. All staff
must maintain the social/personal distancing, as far as practical, at all times.
b) Check temperature and respiratory symptoms of all client at the point of arrival. Persons with fever
and/or respiratory symptoms should not be granted access to the establishment.
c) Admission to health, wellness and beauty establishments MUST be on appointment only basis.
d) Arrange sign-in and sign-out and any interaction with clients in such a manner that adequate personal
distancing is observed between client and staff.
e) Clients must wash their hands and or use hand sanitiser before entering the premises and sanitized.
f) Do not share pens and pencils with the client. Provide dedicated pens and pencils to be used by the
client as required. Disinfect with Alcohol solution after every use.
g) Staff must use disposable gloves when handling credit cards, cash and any documents such as IDs
given by the clients. After each such transactions the disposable gloves must be properly discarded
and hand Sanitization carried out.
h) Encourage the use of paperless systems for signing in and billing. Minimize the use of paper where
possible.
i) Sanitize all key card or key tags, every time it is returned to the reception, before reissuing. All key
cards or key tags must be sanitized before issuing to clients.
j) Staff must refrain from handling children that are not clientele at all times.
k) Ensure that adequate numbers of hand sanitizers are always available at the front desk for consistent
use.
l) Try to avoid clients touching products that they don’t plan to purchase.
m) In case of delayed appointments, the establishment needs to set up a waiting area outside the salon for
the clients.
n) Consider use of floor stickers and signage that provide guidance for social distance and consider
placement of visible and appropriate signage to communicate to the customer that thorough sanitation
procedures are in place.
o) The floor and wall finishes of the establishments must be conducive for easy cleaning and
disinfectant, and should continuously be done during the course of the day.
3.0 Technical and maintenance services
These protocols are for establishments providing personal services, including barbers, hairdressers, nail
salons, aestheticians, spas, body artists, Swimming Pools, Gyms and fitness centres.

3.1 Disinfection
a) All establishments must be thoroughly cleaned and disinfected prior to reopening. Disinfect all
surfaces, tools, and linens, even if they were cleaned before the establishments were closed.
b) Establishments must use disinfectants;- soap disinfectant (1% sodium hypochlorite or phenolic
disinfectants)/ bleach as recommended by MOH. If in doubt of the effectiveness, check with MOH
Website and help centers.
c) Disinfectant for immersion of all work tools must be mixed daily and replaced sooner if it becomes
contaminated throughout the workday. Disinfectant only works on a clean surface, so clean all
surfaces and tools with hot soapy water before disinfecting.
d) Contact time on label must be observed for disinfectant to work. Contact time refers to how long the
disinfectant is visibly wet on the surface allowing it to thoroughly destroy all of the pathogens.
Typical contact time for immersion/sprays is 10 minutes. Disinfectants used for immersion must be
changed daily or sooner if it becomes contaminated (ex: hair/debris floating in solution or cloudy
solution.)
e) Disinfection is for hard non-porous surfaces, glass, metal and plastic. Porous/soft surfaces cannot be
disinfected and must only be used once and then discarded (tools such as cardboard nail files, nail
buffers, drill bits for artificial nails etc.)
f) Must wash all linens, towels, drapes, cotton strips, salon vests, aprons and gowns in hot soapy water
and dry completely at the warmest temperature in dryer or under direct sunlight and store in an
airtight cabinet. Store all used/dirty linens in an airtight container or spaces.
g) Recommended that you place a clean towel over the face of your client while at the sink is a good
way to protect their mouth, nose and eyes. Minimize to the greatest degree possible, up-close, direct
face-to-face contact with clients.
h) Sponges must not be used, alternatives like cotton wool are recommended.
i) Whenever possible, use only disposable cleaning materials. Discard any cleaning equipment made of
cloths and absorbent materials, e.g. mop head and wiping cloths. When pertinent, disinfect properly
non-porous cleaning materials with 0.5% sodium hypochlorite solution or according to
manufacturer’s instructions before using for other rooms.
j) Textiles, linens, and clothes should be put in special containers, and handled carefully to prevent
raising dust, with consequent potential contamination of surrounding surfaces or people. Instructions
should be given for washing them in hot cycles (70ºC or more) with the usual detergents.
k) All Used items must be handled appropriately to mitigate the risk of potential transmission.
Disposable items (hand towels, gloves, masks, tissues) should be placed in a container with a lid and
disposed of according to the establishment’s action plan and national regulations for waste
management and disinfection.
l) Avoid the sharing of tools, equipment and product (e.g. shears, irons, nail clippers, gowns, etc.).
Provide each staff their own set of tools if possible.
3.2 Restrooms and Washrooms
a) You must clean and disinfect ALL restroom and washroom surfaces including floors, showers, sinks,
and toilet bowls every day.
b) Store paper towels/products in a closed cabinet and provide antibacterial hand soap for use.
c) Provide foot operated bins inside the washrooms with trash bags. Place trash cans closer to the exit of
the rest rooms and provide open trash cans for paper towels in rest rooms. Remove anything that does
not have to be in the restrooms.
d) Regular checks should be carried out to ensure the proper functioning of soap and disinfectant
solution dispensers, hand dryers, disposable tissue dispensers, and other similar devices. Defective
units should be rapidly repaired or replaced.
e) Disinfect frequently touched areas such as door handle, water taps, door/towel/cistern handles, and
seats and cover flaps, wash basins, door knobs, buttons and switches with disinfectant regularly.
f) Provide adequate supply of toilet paper, paper towels (if provided) or hand dryers and liquid soap at
all times.
g) Ensure toilet-flushing apparatus is functioning at all times.
h) Ensure all sanitary pipes and fittings are in good working condition.
i) Provide hand sanitizers outside the washrooms (preferably sensor operated)

3.3 Washing Station (Sink/Shampoo areas)

a) You must clean and disinfect after each use all sinks, taps, hoses, spray nozzles, handles, shampoo
chairs and arm rests. Wipe down all back-bar products and shelves. Discard and replace any products
that have not been stored in a closed container.
b) Consider the use of plastic or a towel on the shampoo sink between client’s neck and the sink.
c) You must limit as much as possible face-to-face contact with clients and consider using face-
shields/eye goggles by staff
d) You must clean and disinfect all work area surfaces between every client. Clean and disinfect chairs,
head rest, arm rests, gym and health machines and all other equipment in the establishments after
each use.
e) Clean and disinfect all reusable tools and store in an airtight closed container. Clean and disinfect all
wellness and beauty appliances like shears, clippers, clipper guards, clippies, rollers, combs, brushes,
rolling carts and any other items used in connection with servicing clients.
f) You must check to make sure all products such as lotions, creams, waxes and scrubs are in a closed
container, if not you must discard and replace.
g) You must clean and disinfect all linen hampers and trash container and only use such container that
can be closed and use with liners that can be removed and discarded.
h) You must provide hand sanitizer at all work locations for employees and clients.
i) For salons and barber shops, consider station barriers between workstations and or recommended
social distancing guidelines
j) Use disposable single use items where possible e.g. Gloves and dispose immediately after attending
to the client.
k) Blow drying hair, including the use of bonnet style and hooded hair dryers, is not believed to be a
high risk activity at this time and that these services can continue to take place. For the comfort of all
clients, be mindful to direct the air away from other clients as much as possible.

3.4 Manicure & Pedicure sinks and basins

a) Sinks and Basins and Bowls use MUST be disassembled and disinfected every day
b) You must remove all parts that can removed and clean all removed parts with soap and water, rinse
in clear water and then immerse into properly diluted disinfectant for full recommended contact time.
c) You must scrub bowl with soap and water and replace removed parts to bowl. Rinse with bowl with
clean water. Fill bowl with again with clean water and proper amount of disinfectant and let stand for
proper time (at least 10 minutes).
d) If your bowl has jets, must let the jets run for a full 10 minutes with disinfectant.
Note: All these conditions apply to mobile wellness and beauty services as well.

3.5 Treatment Rooms

3.5.1 Spas
a) After each client, you must clean and disinfect all surfaces such as, chairs, tables , electrical
appliances and their cords.
b) Each day you must clean and disinfect all linens and store in a closed container/cabinet.
c) Each day you must clean and disinfect all hampers that hold soiled linens and be sure to use one that
can be lined and closed.
d) You must remove and discard any products that could have been contaminated by improper
unsanitary use. Replace with new product.
e) You must empty all wax pots daily and disinfect before refilling them with new wax. Purchase new
single use applicators that can be deposed of in an airtight trash bin. The airtight trash bin should have
a lid and should be lined with a disposable plastic bag.

3.5.2 Tanning Services

a) Provide handwashing or sanitizing stations at the entrance to the tanning room and post signage
asking clients to use these before entering.
b) Staff and clients should not be in a sunbed/sunless room at the same time. Provide adequate space for
people to move through hallways and into treatment rooms. Consider marking off walking and
standing areas so everyone is clear where they should be positioned when walking through tight
areas.
c) Ensure equipment and other high touch surfaces are fully cleaned and disinfected between each use,
including beds, buttons, bed handles, door handles, and coat hooks. Always follow label instructions
and ensure that cleaners and disinfectants are appropriate for the equipment. Some products may need
to be rinsed off with clean water before use to prevent skin irritation.
d) Establish policies to ensure all laundry is handled appropriately. Provide clearly marked laundry bins
and ensure dirty linens are laundered before next use.
e) If tanning services require a staff to be present (i.e., in the application of spray tans), ensure 2 metres
of physical distance is maintained wherever possible. If this is not possible, and if the installation of a
barrier is not possible, masks should be worn to reduce the risk of transmission. Cloth and surgical
masks may not protect the wearer from the virus because they do not form a tight seal with the face,
but they can reduce the spread of the wearer’s respiratory droplets to others. For that reason, clients
should be required to wear masks for these services to protect staff. Staff should also wear masks to
protect clients.
f) Clients should bring their own goggles, or single-use items should be used.

3.6 Body Art Studios and (semi) Permanent make up application

a) Arrange workstations of tattoo artists, body piercers, laser tattoo removal technicians, or other staff to
ensure adequate physical distance of 2 metres between stations is maintained.
b) Provide release and consent forms online.
c) Use larger treatment rooms wherever possible.
d) Sanitize chairs or beds after each use. Ask clients to wash or sanitize their hands before services are
provided.
e) Allow staff to wear gowns, smocks, or aprons. Have these items removed and laundered at the end of
each workday.
f) Provide virtual options for workers and clients such as email and video conferencing for
consultations, trouble-shooting, and after care services.
g) Avoid touching the face (eyes, nose, and mouth) while providing services to clients.
h) Avoid the sharing of tools, equipment, and product (e.g. tattoo machine, ink, and body piercing
equipment etc.). Ensure that all single use items (tattoo needles, ink-caps) are disposed off in a sealed
container (e.g. lidded canister). Use disposable covers such as clip cord covers for tools and
equipment where possible.
i) Limit clients handling body jewellery. Jewellery should remain individually packaged until purchased
or inserted by a service provider.
j) Reduce the amount of retail products such as body jewellery on shelves for easier cleaning.

3.7 Gyms and fitness centres

3.7.1 Cleaning and disinfecting
a) Develop a cleaning and disinfecting plan that includes high-touchpoint areas and surfaces including
washrooms, change rooms, showers, vending machines, key pads, bank machines, shared computers
and other office equipment, and POS locations, as well as common switches, door handles, indoor
furnishings, and rental equipment. Remove non-essential items (magazines, newspapers, toys) from
common areas to facilitate cleaning.
b) Develop and provide staff with training on cleaning plans and offer checklists outlining protocols and
frequency.
c) Personal protective equipment (e.g., mask, face shield, gloves and goggles, etc.) for staff conducting
regular facility maintenance duties are mandatory for safety reasons.

3.7.2 Equipment Layout

a) Consider the layout of equipment and fitness areas to ensure adequate spacing is available to clients.
Position equipment at least 2 metres apart with greater distancing for aerobic fitness equipment where
high exertion is common (e.g., treadmills, rowing machines, and spin bikes).
b) Designate areas for the use of the equipment and for moving around the area to ensure physical
distances are maintained. Consider using tape on the floor to define these areas.
c) If equipment cannot be moved and will result in people being within 2 metres from one another, you
may erect barriers, such as plexiglass, between pieces of equipment.

3.7.3 Group Classes

a) Group classes should only be offered if physical distancing measures can be maintained. The
Presidential directive prohibition on mass gatherings of more than 10 people applies to fitness or
group classes.
b) Consider holding outdoor classes to ensure the 2 metres physical distancing requirement is
maintained.
c) High-intensity classes may result in greater dispersion of droplets from each participant due to higher
intensity breathing in addition to participant movement. Position instructors well away from
 participants, and follow guidance from public health on the appropriate spacing between participants
in these types of activities.
d) High-powered fans/Air conditioners may result in greater dispersion of droplets. Consider further
reducing class sizes to maintain room temperature at manageable levels without the use of high-
powered fans/AC.
e) Mark a designated exercise area for each client to stay inside of during a workout.
f) Consider removing unused equipment from group fitness rooms to create additional space for clients.

3.7.4 Personal Training

a) Consider the use of technology for virtual training where possible.
b) Advise both clients and trainers to arrive close to their appointment time. Ensure that the waiting area
is configured so that people can maintain physical distancing.
c) Ensure trainers and customers refrain from physical contact and adhere to the 2 metres physical
distancing requirement from each other and other customers during the session.
d) Discourage training activities that necessitate close contact with other people (e.g., needing spotters
during weight training, sparring in martial arts studios, and games in contact sports).
e) As much as possible, coaching sessions should be conducted in a manner that avoids touching clients.
Consider using verbal cues while coaching or using technology to share instructional material and
practice plans.
f) For activities involving direct contact, ensure that hand hygiene is practiced using an alcohol-based
hand rub or handwashing before and after contact.
g) Limit the number of personal trainers on site at any one time to ensure facility capacity is not
exceeded.

3.7.5 Saunas and Steam Rooms

a) Establish and post occupancy limits that ensure the physical distancing requirement can be
maintained.
b) Provide handwashing or hand sanitizing stations and advise customers to use these before and after
using the facility.
c) Ensure these areas are part of the cleaning and disinfecting plan.

3.7.6 Swimming Pools

a) There is no evidence that COVID-19 can be spread to humans through pool water. Proper operation,
maintenance, and disinfection (e.g., with chlorine and bromine) of pools and hot tubs spas should
inactivate the virus that causes COVID-19. Appropriate care should be taken, both in and outside the
pool, to protect staff and clients.
b) There is no special disinfection procedures to put in place for all equipment that are regularly in
contact with chlorinated pool water (e.g.,toys, railings, slides, etc.). Equipment that has been in
contact with fresh or ocean water should be sanitized regularly.
c) Control risks of water-related bacterial disease such as Legionnaires' disease due to prolonged shut
down of water systems including drinking fountains, decorative fountains, hot tubs, steam rooms, etc.
d) If your facility is recently returning to operation, ensure that all mechanical systems (including
recirculation, filtration, and disinfection systems) are maintained, restarted properly, and operated in
good condition.
e) If bracelets (wrist bands) are required, ask clients to put them on themselves.
f) Do not allow sharing of items that are difficult to clean, sanitize, or disinfect or that are meant to
come in contact with the face (e.g., goggles, nose clips, and snorkels).
g) Place physical markers on the floor or walls (cones, lines, stickers, wooden structures, etc.) that
indicate appropriate two-metres spacing distances for clients waiting in line. If appropriate to the
 layout of the facility, consider implementing one-way hallways to reduce congestion. Markings on
pool decks must not create a slipping hazard (e.g., no slippery tape) and must not obstruct safety signs
(e.g., depth marks, no diving). Care must be taken not to confuse distancing signage with depth
marking signage.
h) Ensure that the pool apron is sprayed down regularly.
i) Lifeguards should have their own personal equipment needed for each shift (e.g., rescue tube, first aid
fanny packs). Clean and disinfect rescue equipment (e.g., rescue tube, rescue can, rescue pole, ring
buoys) at the end of the day or during an exchange between lifeguards.
j) For diving boards, waterslides, rope swings, wading pools and splash pads, install physical markers
on the floor or walls (e.g., lines, stickers, cones, etc.) to indicate the distance of 2 metres between
clients in lines.
k) Personal Protective Equipment (e.g., mask, face shield, gloves & goggles etc.) for staff conducting
regular pool maintenance duties are not mandatory unless normally required for safety reasons (e.g.,
when handling pool chemicals).
l) Lifeguarding: Communicate that physical distancing requirements still remain.
A separate protocol will be used for First Aid

3.7.7 Locker rooms, showers and washrooms

a) Establish and post occupancy limits of each area to ensure the physical distancing requirement can be
maintained.
b) Remove unnecessary items to facilitate the cleaning of these areas.
c) Consider removing complimentary shared personal items such as hairspray, hairdryers, and deodorant
sprays. If they are still offered, ensure the bottles are included in the cleaning and disinfecting
plan.
d) Determine how people should move through these locations to maintain the physical distancing
requirement. Tape can be used on the floor to designate walking and changing areas, and may also
identify one-way walkways if this will help keep people separate.
e) Consider blocking off some lockers so that people don’t need to stand close together to access their
items.

3.7.8 Linens and Towels

a) Towels: It is proposed that establishments temporarily not offer this service during the pandemic.
b) If linen service is still offered,
i. Establish policies to ensure all laundry is handled appropriately. Provide clearly marked
laundry bins and ensure dirty linens are laundered before next use.
ii. Each day you must clean and disinfect all linens and store in a closed container/cabinet.
iii. Each day you must clean and disinfect all hampers that hold soiled linens and be sure to use
one that can be lined and closed.

3.7.9 Equipment cleaning and disinfecting

a) Establish and post clear policies requiring clients to wipe down equipment before and after every use.
Provide adequate supplies and garbage bins for disposing used materials.
b) Instruct clients that they must allow equipment surfaces to air dry naturally before using.
c) Consider keeping all non-stationary equipment in one area to facilitate cleaning and disinfecting in
between uses. Station an employee nearby to wipe down equipment after each use before being put
back into circulation. Some examples of non-stationary equipment include balls, blocks, mats,
resistance bands, paralletes, skipping ropes, wobble boards, and foam rollers.
d) Schedule time between classes to allow for appropriate cleaning and disinfecting.
e) Encourage customers to bring their own gear for personal use whenever practical to reduce sharing of
equipment. This may include items such as helmets, racquets, goggles, yoga mats and blocks, gloves,
weight belts, and shin, wrist or ankle guards.
Include all equipment in your facility’s cleaning and disinfecting plan.

4.0 Availability of materials

1. Cleaning staff should be trained on the use of and provided with personal protection equipment as
listed below:
a) Gloves
b) Disposable gowns
c) Closed shoes
d) Disposable face masks
e) If doing procedures that generate splashes (e.g. while washing surfaces), add facial protection
with a face shield and impermeable aprons.
2. They should also have access to sufficient disinfectant solutions and other supplies.

5.0 Handling COVID-19 cases in wellness and beauty establishments

5.1 General recommendations
If a client or staff develops symptoms of acute respiratory infection, efforts should immediately be made
to minimize contact of the ill person with all clients and staff of the establishment. Reception or team
leader should follow the procedures in the action plan for the situation when a client develops signs and
symptoms indicative of COVID-19 as they contact the responsible health professionals.
a) Separate the ill person from the other persons by at least 2 m (6 ft) in a designated isolation room or
section of the establishment. Where necessary all other clients and staff must exit the establishment if
too small and doesn’t allow safe distancing.
b) Request the ill person to wear a mask and practice respiratory hygiene when coughing and sneezing.
If the mask cannot be tolerated by the ill person, provide tissues to cover mouth and discard the tissue
immediately into a biohazard disposal waste bag or place it into an intact plastic bag, seal it, and
consider it “biohazard” waste; wash hands with soap and water or alcohol based hand rub.
c) In case the ill person cannot wear a mask, direct contact with the ill person should be avoided unless
wearing at least disposable gown, gloves, a mask, and eye protection.
d) When attending to an ill client or staff coming from an affected area who displays fever, persistent
cough, or difficulty breathing, always use additional protective equipment (provided in the Universal
Precaution Kit), including mask, eye protection, gloves, and a gown.
e) Remove PPE carefully to avoid contaminating yourself. Remove first gloves and gown, do hand
hygiene; next remove the mask and eye protection, and immediately wash hands with soap and water
or alcohol-based hand rub.
f) Properly dispose of gloves and other disposable items that had contact with the ill person’s body
fluids in biohazard bag or a secured plastic bag, which will be considered as “biohazard” waste.

5.2 Case of an affected worker

If a member of the staff reports respiratory symptoms, the staff must immediately stop work and seek
medical assistance. The staff should stay isolated in a suitable room or area while the medical services are
being notified.
Staff that report from home that they are ill with respiratory symptoms should be advised to stay at home
and seek medical attention.
Staff who report from home that they have been diagnosed with COVID-19 should follow the instructions
received from the health authorities, including the recommendation of self-isolation at home until fully
healed.

5.3 Case of an affected client

If the person affected is a client of the establishment, continued stay of the sick person on the premised of
the establishment is not recommended. The person can be isolated in a room on a temporary basis until
the intervention of local health authorities.
Measures for the management of contacts can be referred to WHO interim guidance on Home care for
patients with COVID-19 presenting with mild symptoms and management of their contacts.

5.4 Wellness and Beauty establishment staff taking part in the

evacuation of a suspected case:
a) In order to minimize the risk of contaminating other clients and staff, symptomatic clients should
leave the premises according to instructions from the management of the establishment and local
health authority. Symptomatic clients will be assessed for their condition and, if they fulfil the
definition of a suspected case, they will be transferred to a designated health care facility.
b) Management of the possible contacts of the sick client should take place in accordance with
instructions from the local public health authority. The local health authority should rapidly update
the regional or national health authority on the outcome of examinations and if further actions must
be taken.
c) Staff involved in the transportation of the suspected case should apply infection prevention and
control practices according to WHO/MOH guidance. They should routinely perform hand hygiene
and wear a medical mask, eye protection, gloves, and gown when loading suspected COVID-19
patients for transport in the ambulance. They should ensure that they clean their hands before putting
on PPE and after removing it.
d) If more than one suspected case is being transported, personnel and health personnel should change
their PPE between each patient to avoid possible cross-contamination between suspected, but not
confirmed,
e) cases of COVID-19. They should dispose of the used PPE appropriately in containers with a lid in
accordance with the hotel action plan and national regulations for infectious waste.
f) The driver of the ambulance should stay separated from the cases. If possible, the driver should not be
involved in loading the patient into the ambulance. If assisting with the loading of the suspected
COVID-19patient the driver should wear PPE, including a mask, gloves, gown, and eye protection.
g) Ambulance or transport vehicles should be cleaned and disinfected with special attention to the areas
in contact with the suspected case. Cleaning should be done with regular household disinfectant
solution containing 0.5% sodium hypochlorite. After the bleach has been allowed to remain in contact
with the surface for at least 1 minute, it may be rinsed off with clean water. As an alternative to
bleach, ambulances may use hospital-grade disinfectant products according to manufacturer’s
guidelines.
h) The establishment managers should provide access to services for cleaning and disinfection of the
room occupied by the sick person in accordance with action plan, following the cleaning and
disinfection protocols for rooms with cases. In case that this is not possible, the on-duty cleaner
should be instructed to clean and disinfect the room occupied by the sick person, following the
cleaning and disinfection protocols for rooms with cases and observing personal protective measures.

6.0 Cleaning Supplies Needed:

a) Surface and glass spray cleaners.
b) Sanitizer solution (bleach).
c) Disinfectant liquids with spray guns
d) Proper safety cloths and equipment for the cleaning staff (Masks, Gloves, Aprons, staff Uniforms &
covered shoes are compulsory)
e) Clean cloths
f) Brooms, Mops and bucket of hot soapy water.
g) Vacuum for carpeted areas and hard to reach nooks.
h) Bathroom cleanser and toilet brush.
i) Paper supplies such as toilet paper, paper towels, and napkins

6.1 During the Shift:

a) Make sure the 1meter distance is maintained by the staff as well as the clients
b) At the entrance, a staff member in proper safety dresses should spray hand sanitizers to each client
c) Make sure all the staff are wearing masks
d) Spray and wipe down high traffic surfaces like door handles, railings, seats and counter and table
tops, work tops, equipment as often as needed. During a health crisis, have a staff member do this
much more frequently.
e) Spot clean windows and glass doors so they are free of smudges and streaks.
f) Check that each table has a clean and fully-stocked setting.
g) Frequently check bathrooms for cleanliness.
h) Only paper napkins are allowed.

6.2 When Closing Out:

a) Disinfect the floor, walls and furniture in the premises.
b) Wash all glassware, cutlery, crockery, pots and pans and cooking utensils that might have been used
by staff on premises with hot water.
c) Thoroughly clean and sanitize bathroom surfaces.
d) Empty all bins using proper safety procedures.

6.3 Following measures are to be adopted in addition to the general

measures described above.
a) Should disinfect all the surfaces of chairs, tables, sinks, bowls, work stations, equipment after each
use
b) All staff and clients should maintain at least 1 meter distance inside the establishments.
c) All staff should wear face masks & gloves at all times and change them frequently and after attending
to clients.
d) If possible, display the pricelist either by TV screen, display board or under the glass pad of the table
to eliminate contact.
e) All cleaning staff should wear gloves and masks.

7.0 Safe distancing measures

a) Wellness and Beauty establishments that will be permitted to re-open must adhere to safe distancing
measures by putting in place a crowd and queue management system to minimize crowds by 50% at
one time within their premises:
b) b. Ensure at least 2 meter spacing between clients is enforced at all times, and limit the number of
clients within the store to allow for the 2 meter spacing.
c) Encourage the use of cashless or contactless payment like mobile money, to speed up the payment
process and reduce cash-handling.
d) Encourage clients to make appointments with the establishments to limit number of clients entering
on reduce crowding in establishments.