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QQI Level 5 Hairdressing study materials
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QQI Level 5 Hairdressing practice questions

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Question 1Hairdressing Theory and Professional Practice

In the consultation stage of a salon service, which action best demonstrates active listening when a client describes a previous colour result they disliked?

  1. Beginning to mix colour while the client is talking
  2. Changing the subject to a promotion running that month
  3. Summarising the client's concerns back to them before recommending a service Correct answer.
  4. Handing the client a price list while they are still speaking

Explanation

Active listening requires the stylist to receive, clarify and confirm the client's meaning before advising. Paraphrasing or summarising the concern back to the client proves understanding and prevents misunderstandings that could lead to a complaint. Only after this confirmation should technical recommendations or pricing be discussed.

Question 2Hairdressing Theory and Professional Practice

Which term describes the natural pigment found within the cortex of the hair shaft?

  1. Cuticle
  2. Keratin
  3. Sebum
  4. Melanin Correct answer.

Explanation

Melanin is the pigment produced by melanocytes and deposited in the cortex, and it determines the hair's natural colour. Keratin is the structural protein of hair, sebum is the oily secretion of the sebaceous gland, and the cuticle is the protective outer layer.

Question 3Hairdressing Theory and Professional Practice

A stylist is about to perform a skin allergy test before a tint application. Which product is applied for this test?

  1. Undiluted 6% hydrogen peroxide on its own
  2. A sample of the conditioning treatment from the service menu
  3. A patch of the pre-lightener powder mixed with water
  4. A small amount of the mixed tint and developer to be used Correct answer.

Explanation

The allergy test uses a small quantity of the actual tint mixed with developer as it will be used in the service, because the reaction is to the dye intermediates and the oxidising agent together. Testing peroxide alone or unrelated products would not identify sensitivity to the colour formulation. The result must be checked after the manufacturer's stated waiting time before proceeding.

Question 4Hairdressing Theory and Professional Practice

Which shampoo type is most suitable for a client with a very oily scalp?

  1. A clarifying or deep-cleansing shampoo Correct answer.
  2. A moisturising shampoo for dry hair
  3. A volumising shampoo for fine hair
  4. A colour-enhancing shampoo for warm tones

Explanation

Clarifying and deep-cleansing shampoos contain stronger surfactants that remove excess sebum and product build-up from the scalp. Moisturising formulas add conditioning agents that can weigh down oily hair, and the other options address different needs. Scalp condition should guide the recommendation.

Question 5Hairdressing Theory and Professional Practice

When blow-drying straight hair with a round brush, which technique produces smooth, directed root lift at the front hairline?

  1. Pointing the airflow upwards against the cuticle
  2. Directing the nozzle down the hair shaft while lifting the root with the brush Correct answer.
  3. Holding the dryer stationary against the scalp
  4. Drying the hair completely before any brushing begins

Explanation

The nozzle should follow the hair shaft from root to tip while the brush lifts the root, so the cuticle is smoothed in the direction of growth. Airflow directed against the cuticle roughens the surface and creates frizz. Brushing during drying is what gives control over shape and volume.

Question 6Hairdressing Theory and Professional Practice

Which statement correctly describes the function of the hair cuticle?

  1. It is the layer where colour molecules are stored permanently
  2. It forms overlapping scales that protect the inner structures of the hair Correct answer.
  3. It produces sebum to lubricate the hair shaft
  4. It supplies nutrients to the hair through blood vessels

Explanation

The cuticle is the outer layer of overlapping, transparent scales that shields the cortex from damage and controls how much moisture enters and leaves the hair. It contains no blood supply, does not store colour, and does not secrete sebum. Its condition determines shine and porosity.

Question 7Hairdressing Theory and Professional Practice

Which of the following is the primary purpose of a client record card in a professional salon?

  1. To replace the need for a verbal consultation
  2. To document service history, formulations and any reactions for safe future services Correct answer.
  3. To record the client's payment method for accounting purposes
  4. To advertise the salon's product range to the client

Explanation

A record card provides a written history of services, products, timings and any adverse reactions so that future services can be delivered safely and consistently. It supports, but never replaces, the verbal consultation. Payment records and marketing belong to separate salon systems.

Question 8Hairdressing Theory and Professional Practice

A stylist notices a client has an inflamed, broken area on the scalp. What is the correct professional response?

  1. Decline the chemical service and refer the client to a medical practitioner Correct answer.
  2. Apply a barrier cream and proceed with a milder formula
  3. Proceed as normal because the scalp will heal on its own
  4. Continue the service but reduce the processing time

Explanation

Chemical services must not be carried out over broken, inflamed or infected skin, because products can enter the area and cause further damage or spread infection. The professional course is to decline the service and advise the client to seek medical advice. The service can be reconsidered once the scalp has healed.

Question 9Hairdressing Theory and Professional Practice

Which factor most directly determines the amount of lift achieved when lightening natural hair?

  1. The natural depth and the underlying pigment revealed Correct answer.
  2. The temperature of the room's lighting
  3. The length of the client's hair
  4. The brand of shampoo used before the service

Explanation

The starting depth determines how much lightness must be created and which underlying pigments will be exposed at each stage. Products, hair length and lighting do not change the natural pigment being lightened. This is why a strand test and accurate depth assessment are essential.

Question 10Hairdressing Theory and Professional Practice

A client with previously lightened, porous mid-lengths requests a darker all-over tint. Which approach best protects the hair and gives an even result?

  1. Apply the darkest available shade directly to the mid-lengths first
  2. Pre-fill the porous areas before applying the target shade Correct answer.
  3. Apply the tint to dry hair without sectioning
  4. Use a higher-strength developer on the porous areas

Explanation

Porous, previously lightened hair absorbs colour rapidly and can grab darker than intended, so pre-filling replaces lost pigment and evens the porosity. Applying a strong shade directly or using stronger developer increases the risk of an uneven, overly dark result. Sectioning is always required for even application.

Question 11Hairdressing Theory and Professional Practice

Which of the following best describes the purpose of a strand test before a colour service?

  1. To check whether the client likes the salon's lighting
  2. To confirm the client has paid a deposit
  3. To predict the result and processing time on the client's own hair Correct answer.
  4. To measure the client's scalp elasticity

Explanation

A strand test shows how the client's hair will respond to the chosen product, revealing the resulting shade and how long processing takes. It allows the stylist to adjust the formulation before committing to the full head. It has no connection to payment or lighting.

Question 12Hairdressing Theory and Professional Practice

What is the correct action when a colour product makes accidental contact with a client's eye?

  1. Apply a soothing eye cream and continue the service
  2. Rub the eye with a dry towel to absorb the product
  3. Rinse the eye thoroughly with clean water and seek medical advice Correct answer.
  4. Wait to see whether irritation develops before acting

Explanation

Eyes must be irrigated immediately with clean, cool water to dilute and flush out the chemical, and medical advice should be sought. Rubbing or applying creams can worsen injury, and delaying action allows damage to progress. The incident should also be recorded in the salon's accident book.

Question 13Hairdressing Theory and Professional Practice

Which cutting technique is used to reduce bulk within the interior of a shape without altering the outer length?

  1. Blunt cutting
  2. Club cutting
  3. Point cutting Correct answer.
  4. Graduation

Explanation

Point cutting slices into the ends with the scissors held at an angle, removing weight and softening the interior line while the overall length stays intact. Blunt and club cutting create solid lines, and graduation builds weight rather than removing it.

Question 14Hairdressing Theory and Professional Practice

A client's hair is 6/0 natural depth. The target is a warm copper result two levels lighter. Which formulation principle applies?

  1. Apply the target shade to wet hair to speed up processing
  2. Use a 3% developer with no lift to reach a lighter result
  3. Lift the natural depth and allow the warm underlying pigment to contribute to the final tone Correct answer.
  4. Apply a cool ash shade to neutralise the copper target

Explanation

To reach a shade two levels lighter, the natural pigment must be lifted, and the warm underlying pigment exposed during lightening naturally supports a copper result. Choosing the target shade with this in mind avoids an unwanted cool cast. Ash tones and low-strength developer would oppose the intended warm, lighter outcome.

Question 15Hairdressing Theory and Professional Practice

Which practice best prevents cross-infection between clients when using combs and brushes?

  1. Wiping tools on a towel used for the previous client
  2. Storing used tools in the same drawer as clean ones
  3. Rinsing tools in water only at the end of the day
  4. Cleaning and disinfecting tools between clients according to salon procedure Correct answer.

Explanation

Tools must be cleaned to remove hair and product, then disinfected with an approved product between clients to break the chain of infection. Towels, shared storage and water-only rinsing do not inactivate micro-organisms. Clean and used tools should always be stored separately.

Question 16Hairdressing Theory and Professional Practice

Why is it important to section hair accurately before a chemical service?

  1. It removes the need for a patch test
  2. It makes the client's hair grow more quickly
  3. It allows even product distribution and consistent processing across the head Correct answer.
  4. It reduces the amount of product required to a minimum

Explanation

Consistent sections give the stylist control over where product is placed and how long each area processes, which is essential for an even result. Sectioning does not remove safety requirements such as allergy testing, nor does it affect hair growth. Product quantity is a secondary consideration.

Question 17Hairdressing Theory and Professional Practice

A client requests a perm but her hair has been heavily bleached and is very porous. What is the most professional assessment?

  1. The hair is unsuitable for perming because it is too porous and could break Correct answer.
  2. The perm should be left on longer to ensure the curl holds
  3. The perm will take better because porous hair accepts chemicals easily
  4. A stronger perm solution will compensate for the porosity

Explanation

Bleached, highly porous hair has a compromised cuticle and weakened cortex, so the reducing action of a perm can cause breakage or an uncontrolled curl. The professional decision is to decline the service or recommend alternatives. Stronger solution or longer processing would increase the damage.

Question 18Hairdressing Theory and Professional Practice

Which statement best explains why a neutralising lotion is applied after a perm?

  1. It rebuilds the disulfide bonds into their new curled position Correct answer.
  2. It removes residual oils from the scalp
  3. It seals the cuticle with a temporary coating
  4. It lightens the hair to enhance the curl

Explanation

The perm lotion reduces disulfide bonds so the hair can be wound into a new shape, and the neutraliser oxidises them back into place, fixing the curl. It does not cleanse the scalp, lighten the hair, or merely coat the surface. Correct neutralising is what makes the curl lasting.

Question 19Hairdressing Theory and Professional Practice

A client who is 12 weeks pregnant asks for a full-head colour. What is the appropriate professional approach?

  1. Refuse all services until after the birth
  2. Follow salon policy and the manufacturer's guidance, and discuss options with the client before proceeding Correct answer.
  3. Proceed without discussion because colour is always safe
  4. Apply the strongest lightener available to finish quickly

Explanation

There is no single universal rule, so the stylist should follow salon policy and manufacturer guidance, explain the considerations to the client, and let her make an informed choice. Refusing outright is not required, and proceeding without discussion ignores informed consent. Stronger products increase exposure rather than reduce it.

Question 20Hairdressing Theory and Professional Practice

Which of these describes the correct procedure for applying a semi-permanent colour to freshly shampooed hair?

  1. Apply to soaking wet hair and leave until the water evaporates
  2. Apply only to the roots and rinse immediately
  3. Towel-dry the hair and apply evenly from root to tip within the manufacturer's timing Correct answer.
  4. Apply to dry hair and cover with a plastic cap overnight

Explanation

Semi-permanent colour is applied to towel-dried hair so the product is not diluted by excess water, and it is distributed evenly within the stated processing time. Soaking wet hair dilutes the colour, root-only application gives an uneven result, and overnight processing is not a manufacturer instruction.

Question 21Hairdressing Theory and Professional Practice

Which combination of factors most strongly indicates that a client's hair is in poor condition before a chemical service?

  1. A neat cut and a recent trim
  2. High porosity, rough cuticle and previous over-processing Correct answer.
  3. Regular use of a wide-tooth comb
  4. A natural dark depth with no previous colour

Explanation

Porosity, cuticle condition and a history of over-processing are the key indicators that the cortex and cuticle are already compromised. A recent trim, gentle detangling and virgin hair suggest healthier structure. These indicators should be assessed together during consultation.

Question 22Hairdressing Theory and Professional Practice

A client's colour has faded to a brassy yellow-orange after previous lightening. Which approach best neutralises the unwanted warmth while preserving depth?

  1. Apply a clear gloss with no pigment
  2. Apply a warm gold toner to blend the brass
  3. Shampoo with a moisturising shampoo only
  4. Apply a violet-blue based toner at the correct depth for the target level Correct answer.

Explanation

Violet and blue pigments sit opposite yellow and orange on the colour wheel, so a toner with those bases neutralises the unwanted warmth. The toner must be chosen at the correct depth so the result does not go too dark. Warm gold would reinforce the brass, and clear or shampoo-only options add no pigment.

Question 23Hairdressing Theory and Professional Practice

Two clients both have 5/0 natural depth, but one has fine hair and the other coarse hair. Why might the processing time differ?

  1. Hair texture has no effect on chemical processing
  2. Processing time depends only on the developer strength
  3. Fine hair always needs longer because it has more pigment
  4. Coarse hair has a tighter cuticle that resists penetration, so it may need longer processing Correct answer.

Explanation

Coarse hair has a thicker, tighter cuticle that slows the entry of chemicals, so it often needs longer processing, whereas fine hair takes up product quickly and can over-process. Depth alone does not predict timing. Texture and porosity must be assessed alongside depth.

Question 24Hairdressing Theory and Professional Practice

A client reports stinging and redness on the scalp minutes after tint application. What is the correct immediate action?

  1. Add more developer to dilute the product on the head
  2. Cover the hair with a cap and continue processing
  3. Apply a fragrance-free moisturiser over the tint
  4. Remove the product at once, rinse the scalp and follow the salon's incident procedure Correct answer.

Explanation

Signs of a reaction require immediate removal of the product and thorough rinsing to limit exposure, followed by the salon's incident procedure and medical advice if needed. Diluting on the head, continuing processing or applying cream over the tint all prolong contact and risk worsening the reaction. The event must be recorded.

Question 25Hairdressing Theory and Professional Practice

Which reasoning best explains why overlapping previously lightened hair with a new root tint causes banding?

  1. The porous lightened hair absorbs extra pigment while the virgin root processes more slowly Correct answer.
  2. The tint evaporates faster on the ends of the hair
  3. The cuticle on the roots is more porous than on the ends
  4. The developer loses strength when it touches the scalp

Explanation

Previously lightened mid-lengths and ends are more porous and take colour quickly, while virgin roots need longer to lift and deposit, so a single full-head application produces a visible band. Sectional application and careful timing prevent overlap. The other explanations misstate how developer and porosity behave.

Question 26Hairdressing Theory and Professional Practice

Which of the following describes the anagen phase of the hair growth cycle?

  1. The resting phase, in which the hair is retained in the follicle before being shed
  2. The active growth phase, in which cells in the hair bulb divide and the follicle extends downwards into the dermis Correct answer.
  3. The transitional phase, in which growth stops and the follicle begins to shrink upwards
  4. The shedding phase, in which the club hair is released from the follicle and lost

Explanation

Anagen is the growth phase of the hair cycle, lasting roughly two to seven years on the scalp, during which mitotic activity in the matrix pushes a new hair upwards. The other stages are catagen, the short transitional phase, and telogen, the resting phase that ends with shedding. Recognising the phase matters in the salon because chemical services are best carried out on hair in good anagen growth.

Question 27Hairdressing Theory and Professional Practice

A client with a normal scalp and healthy hair requests a shampoo and blow-dry. Which sequence reflects correct professional practice for this service?

  1. Apply conditioner to the scalp first, then shampoo, then blow-dry the hair while still wet throughout
  2. Shampoo twice without analysis, rough-dry with a towel, then apply heat directly to soaking wet lengths
  3. Comb the hair from the ends to the roots while dry, then shampoo and leave the hair to air-dry before styling
  4. Consult and analyse the hair, shampoo and condition, towel-dry, then blow-dry section by section from the nape Correct answer.

Explanation

Professional practice begins with consultation and hair analysis so the correct shampoo, conditioner and styling method can be chosen. Shampooing and conditioning are followed by controlled towel-drying, and blow-drying proceeds section by section, usually starting at the nape, so tension and heat are applied evenly. This order protects the hair and produces a balanced, lasting finish.

Question 28Hairdressing Theory and Professional Practice

A client with a round face shape asks for a style that will create a slimming illusion. Which design principle should guide the choice of shape?

  1. Build height at the crown and keep width close to the face to elongate the outline Correct answer.
  2. Add volume at the sides at ear level to widen the silhouette
  3. Cut the perimeter to the jawline with outward flicked ends at the cheeks
  4. Keep the crown flat and add a full fringe across the forehead

Explanation

A round face is balanced by creating vertical lines and height, which draws the eye upwards and makes the face appear longer and narrower. Volume kept away from the sides and close to the face prevents further widening. Design decisions should always be agreed with the client during consultation.

Question 29Hairdressing Theory and Professional Practice

A client with fine, limp hair wants a longer-lasting set. Which combination of factors best supports a firm, lasting curl?

  1. Wet hair, small rollers wound without tension, and cooling for only one minute
  2. Hair coated in setting lotion and wound on rollers while soaking wet, then brushed out while still warm
  3. Thoroughly dried hair, correctly sized rollers wound under tension, and adequate cooling before removal Correct answer.
  4. Damp hair, large rollers wound loosely, and immediate brushing out after removal

Explanation

A lasting set depends on the hair being dry when wound, on sufficient tension and correct roller size to form a firm curl, and on complete cooling so the hydrogen bonds reset in the new shape. Brushing out too soon, or working on wet or damp hair, produces a weak set that drops quickly. Fine hair benefits from firm tension and a suitable setting product rather than excess moisture.

Question 30Hairdressing Theory and Professional Practice

A client with dark brown hair (depth 3) requests a copper-blonde result (depth 7). Which formulation principle best describes the lift and tone required?

  1. Lift four depth levels with no tone control, relying on the natural underlying warmth alone
  2. Deposit copper tone only, with no lift, since the target is warmer than the natural depth
  3. Lift two depth levels and add a cool ash tone to neutralise the underlying warmth
  4. Lift four depth levels while depositing copper tone, using a higher-strength developer with a copper-based lightening product Correct answer.

Explanation

Moving from depth 3 to depth 7 requires four levels of lift, and because the underlying warmth exposed during lightening will be orange, a copper tone must be deposited at the same time to reach the target. A higher-strength developer is needed to achieve that degree of lift, and the product must be chosen to deliver both lift and tone. Underestimating the lift or omitting tone control gives an inaccurate result.

Question 31Health, Safety and Hygiene in the Salon

Under Irish health and safety legislation, which document must a salon hold that records its written assessment of workplace hazards and the controls in place to manage them?

  1. The Safety Statement Correct answer.
  2. The Fire Drill Log
  3. The Client Consultation Record
  4. The Accident Report Form

Explanation

The Safety Statement is the written record required under the Safety, Health and Welfare at Work Act 2005, identifying hazards and the controls used to manage them. It must be reviewed regularly and brought to the attention of staff. Other records, such as accident reports or fire logs, support safety management but do not replace it.

Question 32Health, Safety and Hygiene in the Salon

A stylist is about to use a colour product on a new client. Which action best reflects the salon's legal and professional duty regarding patch testing?

  1. Carry out a patch test at least 48 hours before the service and record the result Correct answer.
  2. Skip the test if the client has had colour elsewhere
  3. Ask the client verbally whether they have reacted before
  4. Apply the colour and observe the scalp during processing

Explanation

Manufacturers of oxidative hair colour generally instruct that a patch test be carried out 48 hours before application and the outcome recorded. This allows a delayed allergic reaction to become visible before the full service. Verbal reassurance or testing during the service does not provide the same protection.

Question 33Health, Safety and Hygiene in the Salon

Which practice is correct when a stylist leaves a client briefly to fetch more product during a colour service?

  1. Lower the client's chair and stay within sight and reach of the client Correct answer.
  2. Leave the client alone with the processing cap on
  3. Ask another client to watch the station
  4. Turn off the lights to reduce heat

Explanation

A client undergoing a chemical service should never be left unattended, because reactions or product entering the eyes may need immediate action. Staying within sight and reach allows the stylist to respond at once. Leaving the client, or relying on others, removes that immediate supervision.

Question 34Health, Safety and Hygiene in the Salon

What is the correct first action when a small amount of bleach powder is spilled on the salon floor?

  1. Brush it into the corner until closing time
  2. Clean it up immediately and dispose of the waste safely Correct answer.
  3. Wipe it with a dry paper towel and leave it
  4. Cover it with a towel and continue working

Explanation

Spilled chemicals create slip and contamination hazards, so they must be dealt with immediately using the correct method and the waste disposed of properly. Leaving product on the floor or merely covering it allows the hazard to persist. Prompt cleaning also prevents dust or liquid spreading to other areas.

Question 35Health, Safety and Hygiene in the Salon

Which of these is the correct way to store hydrogen peroxide in a busy salon?

  1. Next to the colour bowls on a sunny windowsill
  2. In an open bowl beside the basin for quick access
  3. Decanted into an unmarked spray bottle
  4. In a labelled, closed container away from heat and direct sunlight Correct answer.

Explanation

Peroxide is an oxidising agent that degrades with heat and light and can react dangerously if contaminated, so it is kept closed, labelled and away from heat and sunlight. Clear labelling also prevents misidentification. Open or unmarked storage increases the risk of accidental misuse.

Question 36Health, Safety and Hygiene in the Salon

Which hand-washing routine is appropriate before and after every client in the salon?

  1. A quick rinse under cold water only
  2. Wiping hands on a cloth towel shared by staff
  3. Warm water with liquid soap, thorough rubbing including between fingers, then drying with a disposable towel Correct answer.
  4. Hand sanitiser alone when hands are visibly soiled

Explanation

Effective hand hygiene uses running warm water and liquid soap, covers all surfaces of the hands including between fingers, and finishes with drying on a disposable towel. This removes transient micro-organisms that could transfer to clients. A rinse, sanitiser on soiled hands, or a shared towel does not achieve the same standard.

Question 37Health, Safety and Hygiene in the Salon

A client arrives with an itchy, red, flaking scalp. What is the most appropriate professional response?

  1. Apply a scalp tonic and continue as planned
  2. Double the patch test time and proceed
  3. Decline the chemical service and advise the client to seek medical advice Correct answer.
  4. Proceed with the colour but use a lower volume developer

Explanation

Visible scalp inflammation or flaking may indicate infection or a medical condition that could be worsened by chemicals or transferred to others. The safe professional action is to withhold the service and refer the client to a doctor. Adjusting developer strength or applying a tonic does not address the underlying problem.

Question 38Health, Safety and Hygiene in the Salon

Which statement correctly describes the difference between disinfection and sterilisation in a hairdressing salon?

  1. Sterilisation is only used for towels while disinfection is used for tools
  2. Both terms describe the same process and can be used interchangeably
  3. Disinfection reduces micro-organisms on surfaces while sterilisation destroys all micro-organisms including spores Correct answer.
  4. Disinfection destroys all micro-organisms while sterilisation only reduces them

Explanation

Disinfection reduces the number of pathogenic micro-organisms on a surface or tool, whereas sterilisation destroys all micro-organisms, including bacterial spores. In hairdressing, disinfection of tools is the routine standard, with sterilisation reserved for specific situations. Using the terms interchangeably is incorrect and can mislead staff about the level of protection achieved.

Question 39Health, Safety and Hygiene in the Salon

After shaping a client's nails during a manicure, which method best disinfects the metal implements before reuse?

  1. Clean, then immerse in an approved disinfectant for the manufacturer's contact time Correct answer.
  2. Spray with water and store in a drawer
  3. Wipe with a dry tissue and reuse
  4. Rinse in warm water and dry with a shared towel

Explanation

Tools must first be cleaned of visible debris, then fully immersed in a suitable disinfectant for the contact time stated by the manufacturer. This ensures micro-organisms are reduced to a safe level before the tool is used on another client. Rinsing, wiping or spraying with water does not disinfect.

Question 40Health, Safety and Hygiene in the Salon

Which action is required when a blood-borne pathogen may have contaminated a workstation during a service?

  1. Rinse the area with water and leave it to air dry
  2. Cover the surface with a fresh towel and proceed
  3. Wear gloves, clean the area with an appropriate disinfectant and dispose of waste as clinical waste Correct answer.
  4. Wipe the surface with a dry cloth and continue with the next client

Explanation

Blood-borne pathogens require barrier protection and effective disinfection of the contaminated area, and contaminated materials must be disposed of according to clinical waste procedures. This protects both staff and subsequent clients. Wiping, rinsing or covering the surface leaves infectious material in place.

Question 41Health, Safety and Hygiene in the Salon

A client reports a burning sensation and itching on the scalp shortly after a colour application. What is the correct immediate action?

  1. Stop the service, remove the product and follow the salon's adverse reaction procedure Correct answer.
  2. Add more developer to dilute the product
  3. Continue processing and reassure the client that it will settle
  4. Move the client to a cooler part of the salon

Explanation

Burning and itching may indicate an allergic reaction or chemical irritation, and the service must stop at once so the product can be removed. The salon's adverse reaction procedure should then be followed, including recording the event and advising medical attention if needed. Continuing or diluting the product prolongs exposure and increases risk.

Question 42Health, Safety and Hygiene in the Salon

Which of the following best explains why salon ventilation matters during chemical services?

  1. It prevents colour from processing too quickly
  2. It removes airborne vapours and dust, reducing inhalation risk for clients and staff Correct answer.
  3. It keeps the salon at a comfortable temperature for styling
  4. It eliminates the need for patch testing

Explanation

Extraction and adequate ventilation reduce the concentration of airborne vapours and dust from products such as bleach, colour and aerosols. This lowers inhalation exposure for both clients and staff. Temperature comfort and processing speed are separate considerations, and ventilation has no bearing on the need for a patch test.

Question 43Health, Safety and Hygiene in the Salon

A stylist notices a frayed flex on a hairdryer. What is the correct course of action?

  1. Wrap the flex in tape and continue using the dryer
  2. Take the appliance out of use and report it for repair or replacement Correct answer.
  3. Ask a colleague to hold the flex during use
  4. Use the dryer only on the lowest heat setting

Explanation

Damaged electrical flexes present a risk of electric shock and fire and must be taken out of service immediately. The fault should be reported so the appliance is repaired by a competent person or replaced. Taping, altering settings or holding the flex does not remove the hazard.

Question 44Health, Safety and Hygiene in the Salon

Which statement best explains the correct use of personal protective equipment in the salon?

  1. Disposable gloves can be washed and reused several times
  2. PPE removes the need to clean tools between clients
  3. PPE should be worn only when the salon manager is present
  4. Gloves and aprons protect staff but do not replace hand washing and safe working practices Correct answer.

Explanation

PPE such as gloves and aprons reduces contact with chemicals and body fluids, but it is a supplement to hygiene practice rather than a replacement. Hands must still be washed and tools cleaned and disinfected between clients. Washing and reusing disposable gloves undermines their protective function.

Question 45Health, Safety and Hygiene in the Salon

How should clean and used towels be managed to prevent cross-contamination in the salon?

  1. Store clean towels separately from used ones and launder used towels at an appropriate high temperature Correct answer.
  2. Reuse a towel for several clients if it looks clean
  3. Stack clean and used towels together at the basin
  4. Shake used towels over the styling area before washing

Explanation

Clean and used linen must be kept apart so that micro-organisms from used towels cannot transfer to clean ones. Used towels should be laundered at a suitably high temperature to reduce contamination. Mixing, reusing or shaking out used towels spreads contamination in the salon.

Question 46Health, Safety and Hygiene in the Salon

What information must be recorded when a salon accident involving a client is entered in the accident book?

  1. The client's payment details and next appointment
  2. Only the client's name and the stylist's name
  3. Just the date and the service performed
  4. The date, time, nature of the incident, people involved and action taken Correct answer.

Explanation

An accident record should capture enough detail to allow the incident to be investigated and lessons learned, including when it happened, what occurred, who was involved and what action was taken. This supports legal reporting obligations and future risk assessment. Minimal or irrelevant entries do not serve that purpose.

Question 47Health, Safety and Hygiene in the Salon

Which fire safety action is correct for a stylist who discovers a small fire in a waste bin?

  1. Raise the alarm, ensure people are safe and follow the salon's evacuation procedure Correct answer.
  2. Move the bin outside and finish the client's colour
  3. Open nearby windows and continue the service
  4. Throw water on the fire and carry on working

Explanation

On discovering a fire, the priority is to raise the alarm and ensure the safety of everyone in the salon by following the evacuation procedure. Staff should only attempt to tackle a small fire if trained and it is safe to do so. Continuing a service or improvising with water delays evacuation and increases danger.

Question 48Health, Safety and Hygiene in the Salon

Which combination best describes the correct procedure for cleaning a washbasin between clients?

  1. Clean with detergent, disinfect the surface and allow the correct contact time before reuse Correct answer.
  2. Rinse with water and dry with a used towel
  3. Spray with air freshener and wipe once
  4. Wipe with a dry cloth and leave the basin damp

Explanation

Basins should be cleaned of visible residue with detergent, then treated with a disinfectant and left for the contact time so it can act. This prevents the transfer of micro-organisms between clients. Rinsing, air freshener or a dry wipe does not achieve disinfection.

Question 49Health, Safety and Hygiene in the Salon

A stylist develops redness and cracking on the hands after frequent colour work. Which action best reflects good occupational health practice?

  1. Apply colour directly with bare hands to avoid glove waste
  2. Report the skin problem, review glove use and use suitable hand care products Correct answer.
  3. Ignore the symptoms and continue without gloves
  4. Use a stronger disinfectant on the hands instead of washing

Explanation

Occupational dermatitis is a recognised risk in hairdressing, and early reporting allows the problem to be assessed and glove use and products reviewed. Appropriate hand care and correct glove selection help protect the skin barrier. Ignoring symptoms or using disinfectant on the skin worsens the condition.

Question 50Health, Safety and Hygiene in the Salon

A salon has several staff and clients present. Which factor most directly determines the level of risk from a hazardous chemical product?

  1. Both the hazard of the product and the extent of exposure to it Correct answer.
  2. The brand's advertising claims
  3. The price of the product
  4. The colour of the product packaging

Explanation

Risk depends on the hazard presented by the substance and the likelihood and extent of exposure, so both must be considered when assessing controls. Packaging colour, price and marketing claims do not affect the actual risk. This principle underpins the salon's COSHH-style assessment of products.