Saftey for massage therapists is often an area that is overlooked. Whether it’s a lack of formal safety training or a disregard for it in favor of clientele development—safety is either ignored or deemed less important than techniques and variety. Whether you work at or own a small practice or a large spa, chances are that you have not had proper safety training. Instead, you usually rely on your common sense and take care of the clients as best as you can.
Importance of safety
In this day and age when the slightest mistake could end in the loss of a longtime client or even a lawsuit, safety is paramount. Lack of it could result in a serious loss of reputation which could cause the business itself to collapse. Therefore, no matter how safe your practice is on the surface, it doesn’t hurt to have that extra secure edge when it comes to serving clients.
Below are some basic, but highly essential safety tips that you can adapt to make sure your practice is a safe and secure one.
Equipment-related safety
Making sure the equipment (massage table, mats, lighting, etc.) is in order may seem trivial, but it is vital. Malfunctioning equipment is often the cause of injury, so make sure all the necessary equipment is in proper working order.
First aid and CPR training
A client could have a medical condition that could be triggered by anything, at any time. So, it’s a good idea to be prepared for a medical emergency, as you could be helping to save a life. Basic CPR and first aid training is a must when it comes to physical therapy; it is an integral part of the job itself.
Accessibility for disabled or elderly clients
You may receive clients that are either senior citizens or have disabilities. Therefore, having all areas of your practice easily accessible to them is vastly beneficial. Make sure to have safe passages, entry and exit ways, non-slip mats and rugs, and wheelchair access.
Client and personal safety
Client safety is paramount to ensure that there are screening processes in place. It is not only the client’s safety that needs to be taken into consideration. The therapists themselves need to have their safety and security assured as well. In case of outcalls, make sure the client is screened and that there are proper check-out and check-in procedures at work.
These are some basic pointers that will ensure your practice, whether large or small, is a safe and relaxing one for both your client and yourself.
