Beauty centers: an overview of their biosafety conditions in Valledupar, Colombia

INTRODUCTION: The risk of transmission of microorganisms in aesthetic and beauty centers is high when mitigation measures are not adopted; thus, it is necessary to constantly review the conditions of these centers, in order to prevent diseases and make the corresponding decisions. OBJECTIVES: To assess biosafety conditions of beauty centers in Valledupar, Colombia. METHODS: This study followed a descriptive methodology and was based on the administration of a survey focused on determining which services are provided in beauty centers, on which activities are developed by their staff, and the conditions under which services are provided. RESULTS: Study results that 93% of centers are legally constituted; furthermore, the most commonly provided service was hairdressing, with 21%. Only 9% of workers were covered by a social insurance system. In terms of social insurances, centers did not comply with minimum requirements. CONCLUSIONS: The aesthetic centers in Valledupar are not complying with requirements from biosafety protocols set forth by legislation and are thus adopting inadequate procedures.