Small business owners must put strict protocols in place

DEMOCRATIC Labour Party (DLP) spokesperson for business Ryan Walters said while there is excitement about businesses reopening in Barbados, small business owners must put stringent measures in place to ensure that they and their customers are protected.

The business executive cautioned that without a unified approach it will prove very difficult to get small businesses up and running soon.

“In essence, each small business sub-sector needs to work collectively with the health authorities and government to define a set of protocols that will achieve a successful phased reopening.”

Taking a closer look at the beauty industry, the DLP spokesperson said, “For service driven businesses such as barbers, hair dressers, nail technicians, beauticians etc, the use of appointments should take priority.

The ability to manage customer visits to your businesses will ensure the safety of both clients and staff and will also increase customer confidence in supporting your business.”

Offering a list of areas that can assist these small businesses at this time, Walters said a mandatory appointment via online or manual process should be implemented.

Additionally, he said daily thermometer checks for staff and for customers on arrival; sanitiser station on entrance of business; wearing of face masks by all staff and the wearing of face masks by customers where the require service allows should also be included in the list of protocols.

Walter said conversations with clients when delivering service should also be minimised and there should be no accompanying guests allowed with the customer. He suggested that business owners should also use email text or Whatsapp to communicate rules and regulations with customers before they arrive for their appointment.

He urged business persons to erect appropriate signage that reinforce the expected behaviour of their staff and customers.

“Never relax your standards rules or regulations to accommodate anyone,” he stated.