Hairdressers and barbers are being reminded that they must wear visors and face coverings to protect themselves and their customers from coronavirus following "several complaints" from members of the public.

Cornwall Council’s Covid Enforcement Team said it was working closely with businesses across the county to help them adjust to the current restrictions.

It said that since lockdown ended the council had received "several complaints" regarding hairdressers and barbers not wearing the appropriate protective equipment.

The team said: "Salons and barber shops are expected to be very busy in the run to Christmas. To help prevent the virus from spreading, it is essential that both staff and customers wear face coverings.

"It is mandatory in law for people providing a close contact service to wear a clear visor/goggles and a type II face mask.

"These are medical face masks that are made up of a protective three-ply construction that prevents large particles from reaching the client or working surfaces."

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Face coverings are also mandatory for customers visiting nail, beauty, hair salons and barbers, and must also be worn by customers in massage centres as well as tattoo and piercing parlours.

The coverings should not be removed unless essential for a particular treatment – for example, for a treatment on the face area that would otherwise be covered.

Dr Ruth Goldstein, lead public health consultant at Cornwall Council, said: “As we learn more about the way Covid is transmitted from person to person, one thing that is really clear is that in any setting where people are in close contact with another the virus will spread really quickly if people are not wearing the right personal protective equipment.”

Cllr Rob Nolan, portfolio holder for environment and public protection, said that most businesses were working "really hard" to keep their staff and their customers safe.

“Members of our Covid Enforcement Team have been visiting premises to explain the legal requirements and help businesses adjust," he added.

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“We really don’t want to see a spike in cases over Christmas so we’re urging everyone to follow the rules now and do what they can to prevent the virus from spreading.

"We will always try to work with businesses but if they refuse to cooperate, enforcement action may be necessary.”

Businesses that do not comply with the current restrictions could face a fine.

Advice and support regarding the latest restrictions can be found at businessregulatorysupport.co.uk.

Alternatively, businesses can contact the council’s Business Regulatory Support Hub at businessadvice@cornwall.gov.uk.

To report concerns about Covid compliance call Cornwall Council on 0300 123 1118 or email covid19@cornwall.gov.uk.