What a Florida Inspector Actually Checks
The Florida Department of Business and Professional Regulation (DBPR) can show up unannounced. Inspectors focus on four main areas: (1) tool disinfection between every client, (2) proper separation of clean vs. used tools, (3) approved disinfection products visible and accessible at the station, and (4) a cleaning log that is current and available for review.
First violation: written warning. Second: $250–$500 fine. Third: up to $1,000 and potential license suspension. The risk isn't worth it.
Between-Client Protocol (5 Steps)
- Remove hair from all tools with a dry brush before applying any disinfectant. Disinfectant does not penetrate hair.
- Clean with 70% isopropyl alcohol or an approved disinfectant spray (Barbicide, H-42, or equivalent) on clippers, trimmers, and shavers.
- Submerge combs and brushes in Barbicide solution for a minimum of 10 minutes if they are reusable items.
- Use disposable blades for each client and discard in a rigid sharps container — never in an open trash can.
- Wash hands with soap before touching the next client.
End-of-Day Closing Protocol
- Disinfect all work surfaces with an approved product
- Empty and clean the Barbicide container — prepare fresh solution for tomorrow
- Clean and oil all clippers and trimmers
- Check disinfection product stock for the next day
- Log the date and time of cleaning in the visible log
Florida-Approved Disinfection Products
The DBPR accepts products with EPA registration that are bactericidal, fungicidal, and virucidal. The most common in Florida barbershops:
- Barbicide — the industry standard, 1:32 dilution with water
- H-42 — direct spray, no dilution required
- Andis CoolCare Plus — for clippers specifically, combines disinfection and lubrication
- Isopropyl alcohol 70%+ — for surfaces, not for soaking tools
Common Violations That Get Barbers Cited
- Storing clean and dirty tools in the same drawer or bag
- Cleaning log not visible and up to date
- Using non-EPA-registered household cleaners
- Barbicide solution older than 24 hours
- Disposable blades in open trash instead of rigid container
Printable Checklist — FL Sanitation Inspection
Print this and post it at your station:
- [ ] EPA-approved disinfectant visible and accessible
- [ ] Clean and dirty tools stored separately
- [ ] Cleaning log current and visible
- [ ] Fresh Barbicide solution (same day)
- [ ] Rigid container for used blades
- [ ] Minimum 2-day supply of disinfection products on hand
Barber Supplies Shop carries all the disinfection products you need, shipped fast from Orlando. Message us on WhatsApp if you need a specific product for your barbershop setup.