Salon Chemical Perm and Relaxer Safety Compliance Checklist

Chemical perms and relaxers involve highly alkaline or reducing agents that can cause serious chemical burns. This checklist ensures safe service delivery and compliance with manufacturer protocols and OSHA chemical handling requirements.

  • Industry: Beauty & Wellness
  • Frequency: Per Service
  • Estimated Time: 15-20 minutes
  • Role: Cosmetologist / Chemical Services Specialist
  • Total Items: 36

Pre-Service Client Assessment

Assess client suitability before chemical service.

  • Client consultation completed including previous chemical services?
  • Scalp and hair assessment completed - no open wounds, abrasions, or chemical overlap risks?
  • Strand test completed for new clients or unknown processing history?
  • Hair porosity assessed to determine processing time?
  • Client consent obtained and documented?
  • No contraindications identified (pregnancy, scalp conditions, allergies)?

PPE and Safety Preparation

Verify PPE and safety measures before applying chemicals.

  • Chemical-resistant gloves (nitrile, not latex) worn throughout service?
  • Client scalp protected with base cream where indicated?
  • Client gowned and clothing protected from chemical contact?
  • Salon ventilation adequate - windows open or fans running?
  • Running water immediately accessible for emergency rinse?
  • SDS reviewed for product in use today?

Application and Processing Monitoring

Monitor chemical application and processing times.

  • Timer set per manufacturer processing time - not exceeding maximum?
  • Processing checks performed every 5 minutes using strand test?
  • Relaxer applied with applicator - avoiding direct scalp contact?
  • Application sequence following manufacturer protocol (new growth first)?
  • Client monitored for signs of discomfort or burning throughout processing?
  • Neutralizer prepared and ready before processing time ends?

Rinsing and Neutralizing

Verify proper rinsing and neutralization procedures.

  • Chemical thoroughly rinsed with water for minimum 5 minutes?
  • Neutralizer applied per manufacturer protocol and timing?
  • pH strips used to confirm neutralization (pH 4.5-5.5)?
  • Final shampoo and conditioning completed?
  • Scalp checked post-service for any redness or irritation?
  • Service results documented in client record?

Adverse Reaction Response

Protocol for handling adverse reactions during chemical services.

  • If client reports burning - immediate rinse protocol initiated?
  • Chemical burn areas rinsed with cool water for minimum 15 minutes?
  • Client referred to medical care if burns observed?
  • Adverse reaction documented in incident log?
  • Product name and lot number available if medical care required?
  • No chemical reapplication to irritated or burned scalp?

Chemical Waste and Cleanup

Properly dispose of chemical waste from perm/relaxer service.

  • Unused mixed product disposed per SDS instructions - not stored?
  • Applicator brushes cleaned and disinfected?
  • Rinse water disposed down sanitary drain with water dilution?
  • Chemically soiled towels segregated for laundering?
  • Client provided with aftercare instructions?
  • Service details logged including product, processing time, and result?

Related Beauty & Wellness Checklists

Related Salon Operations Checklists

Why Use This Salon Chemical Perm and Relaxer Safety Compliance Checklist?

This salon chemical perm and relaxer safety compliance checklist helps beauty & wellness teams maintain compliance and operational excellence. Designed for cosmetologist / chemical services specialist professionals, this checklist covers 36 critical inspection points across 6 sections. Recommended frequency: per service.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does the Salon Chemical Perm and Relaxer Safety Compliance Checklist cover?

This checklist covers 36 inspection items across 6 sections: Pre-Service Client Assessment, PPE and Safety Preparation, Application and Processing Monitoring, Rinsing and Neutralizing, Adverse Reaction Response, Chemical Waste and Cleanup. It is designed for beauty & wellness operations and compliance.

How often should this checklist be completed?

This checklist should be completed per service. Each completion takes approximately 15-20 minutes.

Who should use this Salon Chemical Perm and Relaxer Safety Compliance Checklist?

This checklist is designed for Cosmetologist / Chemical Services Specialist professionals in the beauty & wellness industry. It can be used for self-assessments, team audits, and regulatory compliance documentation.

Can I download this checklist as a PDF?

Yes, this checklist is available as a free PDF download. You can also use it digitally in the POPProbe mobile app for real-time data capture, photo documentation, and automatic reporting.

Browse More Checklists