can involve risks to health if the guidelines for clean sanitary operations are not followed.

You the customer must be aware of what is considered to be a "sanitary operation''.

Look at the premises, are they clean and well decorated? Is the equipment clean? Are the processing tools clean? Have they been sterilised? Is the operator clean and tidy with appropriate protective clothing? Is the operator trained? If this is the first time that you are having a particular type of treatment ask appropriate questions, the intelligent, well-trained operator should explain the procedure.

The following are guidelines that the operator needs to implement for your protection.

Wash his or her hands regularly and thoroughly and certainly between clients.

Disinfect work surfaces frequently.

Clean and sterilise all equipment used on the client, before using it again.

Use disposable, sterile equipment; such as razors needles etc. for each client.

Thoroughly clean and disinfect the body areas to be worked on before treatment.

Be aware of any inflamed or diseased areas, which should not be worked on, such clients should be referred to their doctors for appropriate treatment.

`Sharps', such as needles, or razors must be disposed off carefully in a specially designed `Sharps' box or secure container so that they cannot accidentally injure anyone. Used needles could be contaminated with infectious organisms and great care should be taken with their disposal.

Any soothing creams used, should be dispensed from a tube not a jar. Cream should be applied to the client's skin on a piece of gauze or with an applicator not directly with fingers.

Wear clean protective clothing to protect yourself and the customer, and cover any cuts or abrasions with waterproof band aids.

Your health is your responsibility. Infections, such as Hepatitis B, can be transmitted via dirty instruments used in the practice of cosmetology. If you have any questions or concerns about hygiene in cosmetic treatments, please contact the Environmental Health Department at 236-0224 ext. 218.

ESTLYN HARVEY Chief Environmental Health Officer