The hairdressing industry needs to do more to protect its workers from injury, the Department of Labour says.
A report which evaluated the present state of health and safety management practices used to reduce injury and disease in the industry was released yesterday.
The department's chief adviser onoccupational health, Geraint Emrys, said: "Musculoskeletal discomfort, pain or injury among hairdressers is quite common and is leading to decreased job performance, lower productivity, increased time off work, and even early retirement from the hairdressing profession."
There was also a significant risk of dermatitis for hairdressers.
There are about 2600 hairdressing salons in New Zealand and, according to the last Census, nearly 10,000 hairdressers. Over 90 per cent of hairdressers are women.
Dr Emrys said the causes of harm were largely known, but the industry seemed less aware of how to prevent injury. Hairdressers, tutors and salons needed the courage to take on change in work techniques and work practices.
The report recommended hairdressers take micro pauses and breaks to combat problems caused by rapid repetitive movements. Training should address problems associated with handling chemicals, posture and the risks of dermatitis.
