BUFFALO, N.Y. — Governor Andrew Cuomo has allowed barbershops and salons to reopen in phase two, but with added precautions. Stylists and barbers will have to wear a face mask and either a face shield or goggles at all times.
The reopening guidelines were recently adjusted to expand the coverings policy from just masks and face shields, to a mask and either a face shield or goggles.
So far, two counties in Western New York have stepped up to help their area stylists with personal protective equipment (PPE). Niagara County is offering free goggles to salons and barbers, while Erie and Chautauqua are offering face shields.
Niagara County
The Niagara County Department of Emergency Services is the latest county office to announce their supply initiative for hairdressers. Niagara County has been providing face coverings and hand sanitizer to businesses that need them, but will now offer the goggles for hairdressers.
Niagara County said it's now able to help hairdressers due to the updated policy, as they didn't have face shields but do have goggles.
If you are a Niagara County hairdresser, barber, or salon/barbershop owner, you can email your request to ncem@niagaracounty.com. Supplies are limited and you will have to pick them up from the Public Safety Building in Lockport.
Erie County
Erie County will provide one reusable face shield to every barber or cosmetologist in the county who needs one.
“We are working to make the re-opening process easier for barber shops and salons by providing the PPE they need to keep their employees and customers safe and also comply with state guidance,” said Erie County Executive Mark Poloncarz.
To register to receive a face shield, sanitizer and face masks, click here. You must be a registered cosmetologist or barber with the state. The distribution of said PPE will begin on Tuesday.
Chautauqua County
Chautauqua County also announced Monday that they have a limited supply of face shields for stylists as well.
“Our Chautauqua County Office of Emergency Services has a limited supply of face shields and we hope this will help barbershops and hair salon owners meet the new guidelines so they are ready to reopen as soon as Chautauqua County enters Phase Two,” said Chautauqua County Executive PJ Wendel.
To request PPE in Chautauqua County, click here and complete the Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) request form. Your name will need to match the name on your state license to practice.
Stylists in the City of Jamestown can also call the Mayor's Office at (716) 483-7600 to submit their information.
For more information on salon/barber shop reopening guidance from New York State, click here.