Inslee Updates Rules For Salons, Spas And Offices Under Phase 2

OLYMPIA, WA — Gov. Jay Inslee released two memos Wednesday evening, detailing safety requirements for more businesses that can reopen under the second phase of Washington's Safe Start Plan.

Eight Washington counties are approved to begin phase 2 early, while the rest of the state is expected to reach the second step by June 1. The rules unveiled Wednesday closely resemble the requirements shared for other businesses, including restaurants and retail stores, with a few added sanitary guidelines.

Businesses that offer "personal services," including haircuts, tattoos, and manicures, must adhere to more than two dozen safety practices.

Read the complete rules for personal services here.

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Here are a few highlights:

• Payments should be made primarily through credit or debit cards, to reduce the handling of cash.
• Customers are encouraged to schedule appointments in advance and must self-screen for potential COVID-19 symptoms before they arrive.
• All staff members and customers must wear face coverings and should maintain physical distancing as much as feasible.
• Occupancy will be limited to 50 percent.
• Employees are required to sanitize high-touch surfaces, including work stations, chairs, dryers, shampoo bowls, tools and other equipment between each client, and thoroughly wash their hands with soap and water regularly.
• Each station or booth must be spaced six feet apart or have a physical barrier between them.
• In salons, customers should be provided with a towel to cover their face while using a shampoo bowl.
• Businesses are encouraged to schedule employees in small groups, and provide separate bathrooms and break rooms when possible.

The new rules for office settings largely reflect the same requirements on physical distancing, face coverings, and frequent disinfection of commonly used areas. Notices listing the required hygienic measures must also be posted in highly visible areas, and employees are discouraged from carpooling with people who are not in their immediate household.

Read the complete rules for professional services here.

Review all of the guidelines released by the governor's office here.