A grooming salon is a workplace with hot dryers, sharp blades, wet floors, anxious animals, chemical products, and electrical equipment running all day. Without systematic inspection protocols, hazards accumulate until something goes wrong — a dryer overheats, a blade cuts too deep, a cleaning product is stored next to food, or a fire extinguisher expires unnoticed. Inspection checklists eliminate the "I assumed someone checked that" problem.
This guide provides a complete 75-point inspection checklist organized by frequency (daily, weekly, monthly) and category (equipment, sanitation, chemical, electrical, emergency). Use it as-is or adapt it to your facility. The checklist is based on OSHA general industry standards, state kennel licensing requirements, and a decade of grooming salon operations.
There are three reasons every grooming salon needs a formal inspection checklist:
If an animal is injured in your salon, an insurance adjuster will ask what safety protocols you had in place. If a staff member is injured, OSHA will ask the same question. A documented, regularly completed inspection checklist demonstrates due diligence. Without one, you are relying on the argument that your salon is "generally clean and safe" — which does not hold up in a claims process.
Most states require grooming salons to pass health and safety inspections for kennel licensing. Inspectors check sanitation, ventilation, chemical storage, fire suppression, and animal safety measures. A salon that runs through a checklist daily will pass these inspections without scrambling. A salon that does not will eventually fail one — and the resulting closure, fines, or conditional license can damage your reputation permanently.
The best salons operate the same way whether the owner is there or not. Checklists remove subjectivity from daily operations. A new hire with two weeks of experience follows the same sanitation protocol as a ten-year veteran because both are working from the same checklist. This consistency is what clients notice — the salon always smells clean, the tools always work, the tables are never sticky.
Complete these items before the first appointment of the day. Designate an opening staff member responsible for the daily checklist and initial each item when complete.
| # | Item | Details |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Inspect all grooming tables | Check that grooming arms are secure, noose loops are intact with no fraying, hydraulic tables operate smoothly, and non-slip mats are in place. |
| 2 | Test all clipper blades | Run each blade on a test surface. Verify they cut cleanly, are properly oiled, and show no signs of dullness or heat buildup. Set aside any blade that drags or heats within 30 seconds. |
| 3 | Check bathing stations | Run water at each station to verify hot/cold mixing works, spray nozzles are not clogged, drain stoppers function, and non-slip mats are secure. |
| 4 | Inspect dryers | Power on each dryer for 30 seconds. Listen for unusual noise, check air flow, inspect heating elements for dust buildup, and verify temperature controls are responsive. |
| 5 | Verify first aid kit | Confirm styptic powder, gauze, antiseptic spray, eye wash, exam gloves, and a muzzle are present and not expired. |
| 6 | Check chemical supplies | Verify shampoo, conditioner, ear cleaner, and disinfectant bottles are properly labeled and have adequate supply for the day. |
| 7 | Floor inspection | Check for standing water, damaged floor coating, loose mats, or debris that could cause slipping. Clean and dry any wet areas. |
| 8 | Kennel/crate inspection | Verify all crates and kennels are clean, dry, latches work properly, and ventilation is adequate. Remove any broken crates from service. |
| 9 | Ventilation check | Verify exhaust fans are operating, HVAC is set to correct temperature (68-74F), and air quality is acceptable (no strong chemical or ammonia odors). |
| 10 | Entryway safety | Confirm entrance doors close securely, baby gates or barriers are in place, and the reception area is free of hazards. |
| # | Item | Details |
|---|---|---|
| 11 | Deep clean dryers | Remove lint screens, vacuum internal ducts, wipe housings, and inspect cords for damage. Lint buildup in dryers is a fire hazard. |
| 12 | Sharpen/replace blades | Send dull blades for professional sharpening. Maintain at least two backup blades for every commonly used size. |
| 13 | Drain and clean tubs | Flush drain traps, remove hair clogs, scrub tub surfaces with veterinary-grade disinfectant, and inspect caulking for gaps. |
| 14 | Laundry deep clean | Wash all towels, smocks, and fabric items in hot water with bleach alternative. Inspect for wear and discard frayed items. |
| 15 | Sanitize all crates/kennels | Spray all interior surfaces with Rescue (accelerated hydrogen peroxide), allow contact time, rinse, and air dry completely. |
| 16 | Inspect scissors and shears | Check alignment, tension, and sharpness. Clean pivot points and apply lubricant. Scissors with loose tension can pinch skin. |
| 17 | Mop with disinfectant | Mop entire salon floor with veterinary-grade disinfectant at proper dilution ratio. Pay special attention to corners and under tables. |
| 18 | Check trash and waste disposal | Verify outdoor waste containers are secure, not overflowing, and pest-free. Confirm hair disposal system is functioning. |
| 19 | Test emergency lighting | Activate emergency/exit lighting to verify battery backup is functional. Replace any units with dim or non-functional lights. |
| 20 | Review incident log | Review all incidents from the past week. Identify patterns, follow up on open items, and adjust protocols if needed. |
| # | Item | Details |
|---|---|---|
| 21 | HVAC filter replacement | Replace or clean HVAC filters. Pet hair and dander clog filters faster than in non-animal environments. Set a calendar reminder. |
| 22 | Fire extinguisher inspection | Check pressure gauge (green zone), inspect for physical damage, verify inspection tag is current, and ensure accessibility (not blocked). |
| 23 | Plumbing inspection | Check under all sinks and tubs for leaks, verify water heater temperature (120F max to prevent scalding), and test drain speed. |
| 24 | Electrical panel check | Inspect breaker panel for tripped breakers, signs of overheating (discoloration, burning smell), and proper labeling. |
| 25 | Chemical inventory and SDS review | Verify all chemicals have current Safety Data Sheets (SDS) in the OSHA binder. Discard expired products. Restock as needed. |
| 26 | Clipper motor inspection | Inspect clipper motors for overheating, excessive vibration, and cord damage. Service or replace units showing wear. |
| 27 | Table arm and noose inventory | Inspect all grooming arms, clamps, and nooses. Replace any frayed nooses immediately. Grooming arm failure is a serious injury risk. |
| 28 | Pest inspection | Check for signs of fleas, ticks, ants, rodents, or other pests. Inspect storage areas, baseboards, and outdoor perimeter. Schedule exterminator if needed. |
| 29 | Staff certification review | Verify all staff certifications (first aid, CPR, grooming) are current. Schedule renewals 30 days before expiration. |
| 30 | Insurance and license review | Confirm business license, kennel license, and insurance policies are current. File renewal paperwork at least 60 days before expiration. |
| # | Item | Details |
|---|---|---|
| 31 | Grooming table stability | All four legs/base make full contact with floor. No wobble or rocking. Hydraulic tables hold position without sinking. |
| 32 | Table non-slip surfaces | Rubber mats on all table surfaces are intact, not curling at edges, and provide adequate grip when wet. |
| 33 | Noose safety releases | Every grooming noose has a quick-release mechanism that functions properly. Test by applying moderate pressure — it should release before causing distress. |
| 34 | Clipper blade temperature | Test blade temperature on inner wrist after 2 minutes of use. If uncomfortably warm, the blade is overheating and needs cooling spray, oil, or replacement. |
| 35 | Dryer temperature calibration | Use a thermometer to verify dryer output does not exceed 110F at 12 inches from the nozzle. Higher temperatures cause burns and heatstroke. |
| 36 | Bathing water temperature | Test water with a thermometer before every bath. Ideal range: 98-102F. Water over 105F can burn sensitive skin. Water below 95F causes stress and shivering. |
| 37 | Cord management | No clipper, dryer, or appliance cords draped where animals or staff can trip or chew. Use cord management clips and ceiling-mounted retractable cords where possible. |
| 38 | Sharp tool storage | All scissors, shears, stripping knives, and blades stored in closed containers or magnetic strips when not in use. Never left loose on tables or counters. |
| 39 | Tub ramps and steps | Walk-in tub ramps have non-slip surfaces and side rails. No loose steps or wobbly ramps that could cause a dog to fall. |
| 40 | Eye protection availability | Safety glasses available for all staff for use during de-shedding (flying hair) and chemical mixing. OSHA requires eye protection when splashing hazards exist. |
| # | Item | Details |
|---|---|---|
| 41 | Table disinfection between dogs | Spray table surface with disinfectant between every dog. Allow minimum contact time per product instructions (typically 1-5 minutes for Rescue). |
| 42 | Blade disinfection between dogs | Spray blades with blade wash or disinfectant between every dog. This prevents cross-contamination of skin conditions, fungal infections, and parasites. |
| 43 | Tub disinfection between dogs | Rinse and spray tub surfaces between every bath. Full disinfection is not required between every dog if the dog is visually healthy, but rinse thoroughly. |
| 44 | Hand washing protocol | Staff wash hands with antimicrobial soap between every dog. Hand sanitizer is acceptable between washes but does not replace washing. |
| 45 | Towel management | Fresh towel for every dog. Never reuse towels between dogs without washing. Maintain adequate towel inventory to avoid shortcuts. |
| 46 | Hair disposal | Sweep and dispose of hair between every dog. Hair on the floor creates slip hazards, is unsightly, and can trigger allergies in other dogs and staff. |
| 47 | Waste cleanup | Clean and disinfect any area where a dog urinates or defecates immediately. Use enzymatic cleaner to eliminate odor, followed by disinfectant. |
| 48 | Water bowl sanitation | Wash all water bowls with hot soapy water daily. Replace water at minimum every 4 hours. Never let standing water sit overnight. |
| 49 | Laundry hygiene | Dirty laundry stored in covered hampers, not on the floor. Wash load sizes that allow proper agitation. Dry completely — damp towels breed bacteria. |
| 50 | Staff smock/apron hygiene | Clean smock or apron daily. Replace mid-day if visibly soiled. Staff clothing can transfer skin conditions, parasites, and allergens between dogs. |
| # | Item | Details |
|---|---|---|
| 51 | SDS binder accessible | A Safety Data Sheet binder for every chemical product in the salon is accessible to all staff within 30 seconds. OSHA requires this. |
| 52 | Chemical storage separation | Cleaning chemicals stored separately from grooming products. Never store chemicals above food, treats, or water supplies. |
| 53 | Proper labeling | Every spray bottle, dilution container, and bulk container is labeled with contents, concentration, and hazard warnings. No unlabeled containers. |
| 54 | Dilution ratios posted | Dilution instructions for every chemical product posted at the mixing station. Incorrect dilution is both a waste of product and a safety hazard. |
| 55 | Ventilation during chemical use | Adequate ventilation when using disinfectants, flea treatments, and de-skunking products. Open windows or run exhaust fans during chemical use. |
| 56 | Glove availability | Chemical-resistant gloves available at every station where chemicals are used. Nitrile gloves for general use; chemical-specific gloves for concentrated products. |
| 57 | Spill kit | Spill containment materials (absorbent pads, neutralizer, disposal bags) accessible within 30 seconds of any chemical storage area. |
| 58 | Expired product disposal | Check expiration dates on all chemical products monthly. Dispose of expired products according to local hazardous waste regulations. |
| 59 | Locked storage for restricted items | Flea/tick treatments, medicated shampoos, and any product containing pesticides stored in a locked cabinet away from unauthorized access. |
| 60 | Eye wash station | Plumbed or bottle-type eye wash station within 10 seconds of any chemical use area. OSHA requires this where corrosive materials are used. |
| # | Item | Details |
|---|---|---|
| 61 | GFCI outlets in wet areas | Every electrical outlet within 6 feet of a water source must be GFCI protected. Test monthly using the test/reset button. |
| 62 | No daisy-chained power strips | Power strips should never be plugged into other power strips. This is a fire code violation and overloads circuits. |
| 63 | Cord condition | Inspect all power cords for fraying, exposed wire, kinks, and damaged plugs. Replace immediately — damaged cords cause shocks and fires. |
| 64 | Fire extinguisher placement | At least one ABC-type fire extinguisher within 75 feet of any point in the salon. One near the dryer station (most common fire origin) and one near the electrical panel. |
| 65 | Smoke detector function | Test all smoke detectors monthly. Replace batteries annually (or use 10-year sealed units). Document testing dates. |
| 66 | Exit signage and pathways | All exits clearly marked with illuminated exit signs. Exit pathways clear of equipment, boxes, and obstructions at all times. |
| 67 | Dryer ventilation clearance | All dryers have minimum 12 inches of clearance around air intakes. Never place dryers against walls, in corners, or near combustible materials. |
| 68 | Surge protection | Expensive equipment (clippers, computers, POS systems) connected through surge protectors rated for the load. Check rating labels annually. |
| # | Item | Details |
|---|---|---|
| 69 | Emergency contact list posted | Emergency vet, poison control (ASPCA: 888-426-4435), fire department, police, and owner contact posted in visible location in every room. |
| 70 | Evacuation plan posted | Written and diagrammed evacuation plan posted near every exit. Include animal evacuation — how to get 10+ dogs out safely. |
| 71 | Emergency leashes accessible | Slip leads stored at every exit for emergency dog evacuation. At least one lead per maximum capacity dog. |
| 72 | Bite protocol documented | Written protocol for dog-on-dog and dog-on-human bites posted in the grooming area. Include first aid steps, documentation requirements, and reporting obligations. |
| 73 | Heatstroke protocol documented | Written protocol for recognizing and responding to heatstroke: symptoms, cooling procedure, and when to transport to emergency vet. |
| 74 | Power outage plan | Battery backup for critical systems (POS, lighting). Flashlights accessible. Plan for dogs mid-groom when power goes out (especially cage dryer dogs). |
| # | Item | Details |
|---|---|---|
| 75 | Training log current | Every staff member has documented training for all safety protocols, chemical handling, equipment use, and emergency procedures. Update after every training session. |
Print the daily checklist and keep a stack at the opening station. The opening staff member works through it every morning before the first dog arrives and initials each item. Store completed checklists for at least one year — they serve as documentation in insurance claims and regulatory inspections.
The weekly and monthly checklists should be assigned to a specific staff member or rotated among the team. Use your management software to create recurring tasks with due dates so nothing slips through the cracks.
This checklist is not exhaustive — your facility may have unique equipment, local regulations, or building-specific requirements that add items. Use this as a foundation and customize it to match your operation. The goal is not to check 75 boxes — it is to build a culture where safety and sanitation are automatic, not afterthoughts.
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