Quarterly Salon Tool Audit Checklist

Why audit?

Regular audits ensure every shear is logged, serviced, and suitable for the work on your books. This checklist draws on our maintenance hub, sharpening guide, and upgrade planning worksheet.

Step-by-step (quarterly)

1. Inventory refresh

   • Export or print the latest maintenance log.
   • Record each shear: brand, model, steel, handle, current user, serial.
   • Photograph blades (front/back/tip) for reference.

2. Condition check

   • Run the drop test, note closing feel and tension.
   • Inspect blades for nicks, flat spots, corrosion.
   • Confirm finger inserts and screws are secure.

3. Service status

   • Compare the last sharpening date with the recommended cadence for the steel.
   • Flag pairs approaching service windows; contact your vetted technician (consult the interview template).

4. Rotation planning

   • Identify premium shears due for downtime and schedule backups (VG-10/440C).
   • For apprentices, ensure they have Mina/Ichiro sets in good order before stepping into VG-10 or ZA-18 kits.
   • Note any shears ready for retirement or resale.

5. Upgrade roadmap

   • Use the steel-by-service guide to match upcoming purchases with service demand.
   • Update the upgrade worksheet (buyer’s guide) with new targets and budgets.

Annual extras (each December)

• Compile warranty info and serial photos in a shared archive.
• Review sharpening invoices and technician performance.
• Align next-year purchases with planned education or service offerings.

Templates to keep close

• Maintenance log template
• Premium purchase checklist
• Pre-sharpening prep guide

Need help running your first audit? Reach out via the contact page with your current setup and we’ll walk you through the process.