*08/10/2020***Board provides updated guidance on distance learning
The Barber Board has approved the provision of distance learning instruction for theory on a real time, interactive audio and video distance learning platform until December 31, 2020.
In addition, the Barber Board has approved the provision of distance learning instruction for practical/clinical until December 31, 2020, for up to 50% of the program hours (1500 program hours for colleges and 1950 program hours for on-the-job training). The distance learning platform used must allow the student and the instructor to view each other in real time while the instructor is demonstrating and the student is practicing the demonstrated technique. Distance learning for practical/clinical may not include instruction in any services using chemicals.
The Board will continue to monitor the impact of the pandemic, and will review this guidance at a later board meeting if necessary.
***05/27/2020*** The Barber Board approves the provision of distance learning instruction for theory until August 15, 2020.
The Barber Board approves the provision of distance learning instruction for practical/clinical until August 15, 2020, for up to 25% of the program hours (1500 program hours for colleges and 1950 program hours for on-the-job training). The distance learning platform used must allow the student to view the instructor and the student to view the instructor while the instructor is demonstrating and the student is practicing the demonstrated technique.
***03/18/2020*** At a special called meeting on Wednesday, March 18, 2020, the South Carolina Board of Barber Examiners determined that during the declared public health emergency, schools and OJT instructors may utilize distance learning platforms for up to 25% of the required hours for each program over a 10-week timeframe. The board voted to give the Administrator the ability to extend student permits and 90-day work permits that are affected by the public health emergency. The board also voted that during the period of the public health emergency, a temporary permit to operate a new barbershop for up to 90 days may be issued by Board staff, if the new barbershop application is otherwise complete except for an inspection, and an inspection cannot be scheduled.
The Board is continuing to monitor the challenges presented by COVID-19 as the situation progresses, and will provide additional guidance in regards to issues that may emerge, as circumstances warrant.
Regarding the sanitary procedure for barbershops in light of COVID-19, the Board advises that shops must continue to follow the current Board statutes and regulations pertaining to salon safety and sanitation, and should follow any directives from the governor, or other local authority, regarding the closure or operation of a salon. Additionally the Board suggests that salons review and be familiar with federal OSHA and CDC information regarding COVID-19 and the workplace, businesses and employees.
Federal OSHA has published Guidance on Preparing Workplaces for COVID-19 to help companies respond in the event of coronavirus in the workplace. The CDC has also provided Interim Guidance for Businesses and Employers.
Lastly, the Board of Barber Examiners received notice that Professional Credential Services (PCS) and PSI have determined that for purpose of public safety, it is necessary to postpone the upcoming Practical and Theory Examinations in South Carolina until further notice. Please contact PCS at cosandbar@pcshq.com if you have any questions or concerns about the theory and practical exams.
The SC Board of Barber Examiners has approved online instruction of theory using the Milady or PivotPoint distance learning platforms during the current health emergency.