Abu Dhabi steps up watch on salons, beauty parlours

Abu Dhabi - About 40 inspectors are fanned out daily in Abu Dhabi city and on its outskirts for surprise inspections.

All salons, beauty parlours and cosmetic shops in the Capital have been put under enhanced watch to control violations committed by them during the holy month. The Abu Dhabi Municipality has stepped up measures to ensure these centres comply with health and hygiene rules throughout Ramadan.
About 40 inspectors are fanned out daily in Abu Dhabi city and on its outskirts for surprise inspections, according to the civic body. Strict action is taken against offenders.
The authorities have warned that beauty salons should avoid the use of expired cosmetics, harmful chemicals and other unhygienic practices. Fines will be imposed on the salons found flouting the health and safety rules, they pointed out. Common offences registered by the inspectors were use of expired cosmetics as well as black henna or dye on customers, lack of labelling on herbal products, improper storage of products and failure to properly clean devices.
Other violations included lack of compliance with the uniform and personal protective equipment, using non-sterilised/soiled towels, and lack of periodic maintenance of the facilities. Fines of up to Dh5,000 are imposed on errant salon owners. Authorities said using fake and expired cosmetic products, blended black henna and other herbals on customers is very dangerous.
"Black henna, a variation of the natural dye, is harmful to women's bodies as it can trigger severe allergic reactions," said municipal officials. The municipality said they are conducting awareness drives among salon owners to ensure that they adhere to laws and promote hygiene.
During the campaigns, hair dressers are taught about the importance of personal hygiene like clipping nails, shaving the beard, maintaining a decent appearance and donning a white dress.
The officials also cautioned both the staff and visitors on the risks associated with the use of banned materials in the salons.
ismail@khaleejtimes.com

• UAE
• Abu Dhabi