SCOPE OF THE HAIRSTYLIST TRADE

Hairstylists shampoo, cut, style and chemically treated hair. They may also provide other services such as scalp treatments and hairpiece services. In some jurisdictions, hairstylists may also provide additional services such as basic natural nail services, basic facial care, and ear piercing. 

To be a successful hairstylist, one must incorporate technical and interpersonal skills. Continuous personal and professional development and client retention are crucial for long-term success. Hairstylists may recommend styles based on trends, clients’ physical features and lifestyle. Critical thinking, questioning, and listening skills are important to serve their clientele. Depending on the workplace, recommending and selling hair and skin products may be done by the hairstylist. 

According to jurisdictional requirements, hairstylist may work in hair salons, spas, barber shops, schools, hair replacement clinics, healthcare establishments, hotels, and in the cruise, fashion and entertainment industries. With experience, hairstylists may move into other positions such as salon managers, owners, fashion consultants, educators, platform artists and product sales representatives. Salons may specialize in services to either women or men or both. Hairstylists may be remunerated through salary, commission, a combination of salary and commission or chair rental agreements. Some hairstylists work out of their residences where bylaws allow.  

Hairstylists work with various tools and equipment including brushes, combs, shears, clippers, razors, hair dryers and thermal irons. They own most of their tools and must keep them sanitized, disinfected and maintained.

Some hairstylists specialize in areas such as cutting, hair extensions, and chemical services. In addition, diversity across Canada requires specialization in ethnic-specific services. 

Hairstylists work in clean environments, though the chemicals that they use may irritate their skin and produce strong odors and fumes. Some physical considerations of this trade are long periods of standing, posture fatigue, and repetitive motion. This may result in repetitive strain injury, back and foot pain, although ergonomic considerations may reduce these effects.

SAFETY:

Safe working procedures and conditions, accident prevention, and the preservation of health are of primary importance to industry in Canada. These responsibilities are shared and require the joint efforts of government, employers, and employees. It is imperative that all parties become aware of circumstances that may lead to injury or harm. Safe learning experiences and work environments can be created by controlling the variables and behaviors that may contribute to accidents or injury.

It is generally recognized that safety-conscious attitudes and work practices contribute to a healthy, safe and accident-free work environment.

It is imperative to apply and be familiar with the Occupational Health and Safety (OH&S) Acts and Workplace Hazardous Materials Information System (WHMIS) regulations. As well, it is essential to determine workplace hazards and take measures to protect oneself, co-workers, the public, and the environment.

Safety education is an integral part of training in all jurisdictions. As safety is an imperative part of all trades, it is assumed and therefore it is not included as a qualifier of any activities. However, the technical safety tasks and sub-tasks specific to the trade are included in this analysis.