In Washington State over that last 20 years or so there has had a growing problem with the spread of scalp fungus, rashes, sores and sclap diseases spread by unsanitary hands, combs and tools used by non professional, "Folk Art Braiding Salons" (FABS) in the state or Washington. Many have been working under radar of the State Board of Licensing that governs the hair industry. Here in Washington State (WS) some braid artist in braid salons are able to work on unsuspecting victims that do not know the law and how it is suppose to protect them. Many have not been informed about the dangers of visiting these place's that do not follow that law, as FABS, they are not allowed to wash the hair, use combs, brushes, or tools of any kind, and they cannot use products or pomades on the hair. But, they do.
If someone does use a comb and a pimple breaks on the scalp area, it is possible to be infected with blood borne infections such as HIV, Hepatitis, MRSA, Staph, Bacteria, Bacterial infection transmitted from hands or dirty surfaces. Not to mention possible lice eggs that can be missed without proper training which is regulated by requiring a license.
Also, sewn in weaving hair, is becoming more common in these
FAB;, it is not fare to the salon that style, cut and color to take economic growth from these salon's that are proficient in all areas of styling hair when the
FABS don't style or cut hair. Remember, they don't have a Cosmetology License by the state of Washington to do those service's.
FABS have not been required to go to school in any way since, the Institute of Justice has fought some of the cases of FABS and individuals in Washington State. The Washington State licensing agency agreed to allow the braiding of FABS in Washington State. However, the problem is that they do use combs, tools, and product or pomades without any sanitation practice. The public is unaware of the danger's of this practice.
Until, there is enough signature's on this online petition, almost nothing can be done to make changes that will protect the public and educate the FABS on how to sanitize the combs that they are currently using.
FABS should be taught to sanitize there combs and maintain a clean work environment that is safe for the public, in addition they should have the choice to wash and dry the hair for those clients that do need it, and some do need that service. Many clients do not properly wash their own hair and need this service. Perhaps FABS may continue to allow the client to wash their own hair, but some new FAB's may want to use this skill in styling salon's. Because, most if not all beauty schools in Washington may not teach braiding, this is not a braider's license: however, it should be called a "Sanitation/Shampooing License". One may wash, dry and braid hair along with doing other natural styles only! A online class that may be 8 hours of a FAB's time is the only real requirement just to learn about sanitation, washing and drying of the hair; NO TESTING REQUIRED! Somewhat similar to a food handlers permit. Please sign if you agree!
Maxine K. signed
just now 
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