Per the CT General Statutes, the Farmington Valley Health District is required to permit and perform a yearly inspection of the following types of salons:
- Hair salons – Haircuts, styling, coloring, treatments, and extensions
- Nail salons – Manicures, pedicures, nail art, acrylics, and gel applications
- Barbershops – Haircuts, beard trims, shaving, and grooming services
- Tattoo salons – Tattoos, body art, and sometimes piercings
- Esthetician Spas – Facials, body treatments, skincare, and wellness services
- Tanning salons – Sunless tanning and tanning bed services
Currently, there are 242 such salons in the FVHD. FVHD also performs inspections when a complaint is registered about a specific salon.
During such inspections, FVHD ensures that technicians are properly licensed and follow proper sanitation/disinfection protocols. It is necessary that all shared tools, foot baths, workstations, and reusable equipment be thoroughly cleaned and disinfected after each client to prevent infections and other health concerns, and that single service tools are truly only used once. FVHD suggests that single service tools be given to the client to take home to use; otherwise they must be discarded.
By prioritizing proper hygiene practices, regulatory oversight, and ongoing education, we help safeguard the health and well-being of our community residents while allowing them to enjoy salon services safely.
What can I look for as a client?
- Observe overall cleanliness. Floors, workstations, tools, and waiting areas should appear clean and well maintained.
- Watch for proper hand hygiene. Technicians should wash their hands between clients and wear gloves when appropriate.
- Ensure that single-use items are not reused. Items such as nail files, buffers, toe separators, and waxing sticks should be discarded after each client.
- Confirm tools are properly disinfected. Reusable instruments should be cleaned and disinfected between clients and stored in a sanitary manner.
- Ask about cleaning procedures. Foot spas and other equipment should be cleaned and disinfected according to health guidelines.
- Request to see the inspection report. You have the right to review the most recent inspection report to confirm that routine inspections are being conducted and standards are being met.
Being aware and informed helps protect not only your own health, but also the health of others in the community.
Enjoy your salon experience and if you have any questions or concerns, please contact the FVHD at 860-352-2333. Thank you!