A personal service setting (PSS) is a premise that offers services where there is a risk of exposure to blood or body fluids. Locations include:
- Hairdressing and barbering.
- Tattooing and body piercing.
- Nail services.
- Electrolysis and other aesthetic services.
On July 1, 2018, Ontario Regulation 136/18 Personal Service Settings came into effect. This regulation sets operational standards for personal service settings to help protect the public from infection and injury.
Applications
Notice must be provided to the medical officer of health at least 14 days before beginning operations if you are:
- Intending to operate a new personal service setting.
- Expanding the services offered at your personal service setting.
- Reconstructing or renovating your existing personal service setting (beyond routine maintenance).
Special events
Personal service providers planning to offer services at special events must receive approval from KFL&A Public Health. Complete and submit the Personal Service Settings Special Event Application form to at least 14 days before the event.
Resources for personal service setting operators
- Infection prevention and control best practices for personal services settings
- Accidental exposures to blood and body fluids in personal service settings
- High level disinfection in personal service settings
- Sterilization in personal service settings
Inspection reports
KFL&A Public Health inspect PSS premises annually to ensure they are following the regulations and the PPS guidelines. View businesses that are inspected by KFL&A Public Health.
How to choose a personal service setting
Ask questions about the procedure you are hoping to have completed. If the employee does not want to answer your questions, or does not make infection control steps a priority, consider choosing another business.
If you have any symptoms of infection or develop a rash after receiving a personal service, see your health care provider immediately.
Reprocessing
As per Public Health Ontario’s Guide to Infection Prevention and Control in Personal Service Settings, 3rd edition section 4 - Reprocessing refers to the process (e.g., cleaning, disinfection, packaging, sterilization) of rendering potentially contaminated reusable equipment and instruments safe and effective for use. This document describes these critical elements and methods of cleaning, disinfection and sterilization, including the safe handling, monitoring, transportation, and biological decontamination of contaminated equipment and instruments.