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
Reprocessing is the cleaning, disinfection, and sterilization of reusable medical equipment and devices in health care and personal service settings. Following reprocessing guidelines and proper procedures reduces the spread of infection through reusable equipment and devices. Visit Public Health Ontario’s website to review Cleaning, Disinfection and Sterilization of Medical Equipment/Devices In All Health Care Settings.
The CSA Group Standards serve as the foundation for comprehensive medical device reprocessing training programs. The standards are also referenced in Canadian legislation, accreditation, and policies and used by multiple professional associations.
The standard, CSA Z314:23 – Canadian Medical Device Reprocessing in all health care setting, addresses the safe and effective reprocessing of medical devices and supplies.