Code of Ethics
Introduction:
Any class of member of the BCAPA who is in practice will be expected to follow this Code of Ethics and to conduct himself/herself and to practice in such a manner as to uphold and maintain the high standards of the profession of Aromatherapy. This Code of Ethics is divided into three sections and the Aromatherapist is expected to observe all parts of this Code of Ethics at all times. These three sections govern the attitude and behaviour of the Aromatherapist towards clients, the general public and fellow members of the Association.
1. The Aromatherapist and the Client
1.1. The member must recognize that the primary obligation is towards the client and at all times must practice his/her skills to the best of his/her ability for the benefit of the client. The comfort and welfare of the client must always have priority over any other requirement.
1.2. Consultation, assessment and treatment should only be carried out with the full consent of the client (or parent or guardian in the case of minors).
1.3. Any knowledge gained during the consultation and assessment or in the course of the professional treatment must not be divulged to anyone without the client's consent, except where required by law.
1.4. A member of the BCAPA must not deliberately mislead for his/her own gain, a client seeking advice or treatment.
1.5. All reasonable care must be taken to ensure adequate hygiene, quality of materials supplied, and safety of equipment used.
2. The Aromatherapist and the Public
2.1. The member's premises or clinic should be maintained in such a condition as to reflect credit on the profession of Aromatherapy.
2.2. A member shall be free to advertise his/her professional services in any way provided that it does not bring discredit on the profession of Aromatherapy.
2.3. Contributions to newspapers, journals, professional papers and other published works may appear over a member's name and qualification.
2.4. Professional practice stationery should be of acceptable standards stating name, qualifications, relevant professional activities, contact info and practice hours.
3. The Aromatherapist and His/Her Colleagues
3.1. A member must not attempt by any means, to entice a client to leave another Aromatherapy practitioner to become his/her client.
3.2. In cases of referral of a client to a member, by a colleague, no form of commission or split fee may be paid or accepted.
3.3. Members must present a united front to the public and should not imply criticism of colleagues either in writing or verbally before clients or general public.
3.4. It is the duty and privilege of BCAPA members to share professional knowledge and the results of any new research, successful case histories, new use of essential oil, hydrosol, etc.
Code of Practice
Introduction
The Aim of this Code of Practice is to set out the basic standards, which the BCAPA expects its members to maintain. The Code of Practice lays down the minimum standards necessary for members. Clients who attend a qualified Aromatherapist expect a professional approach by the practitioner and this professionalism should be reflected in the equipment, furniture and premises.
Insurance
A member (Professional category) must ensure that his/her professional practice is fully covered by a substantial professional indemnity insurance, professional malpractice, public liability and the selling of mixed oils and other related products.
Premises
Consultation and treatment rooms must be clean, adequately lit, properly ventilated, and in good state of repair. A wash basin with hot and cold water supply, and properly connected to public drainage is essential and should be located in the work area. Soap, preferably containing antiseptic and some means of hand drying should be available. If the consultation and treatment rooms are not directly accessible from the street, all entrance ways and stairways should be kept adequately clean and well lit. An appropriate sign indicating that an Aromatherapist is in practice may be placed at the Main Entrance.
Personal Hygiene
The aromatherapist must ensure that his/her health and personal hygiene are such as to cause no danger to a client. The client must not eat, drink or smoke whilst at practice. The Aromatherapist must be aware of the elements of public hygiene and local safety bylaws, rules and specifications in connection with Aromatherapy.
Furniture
Massage tables and chairs etc., should be sturdy and safe. They should be kept clean and disinfected. Table tops and other work surfaces must have an impervious surface which can be cleaned and disinfected at each session.
Client Register
A card index or other suitable means should be setup to register clients names, addresses and other relevant information, including dates of attendance. Good records should be maintained so that continuity of client care is possible, and case history information can be made available to another Therapist should the client move away from a practice. These records should include up-dated progress reports and records of any referrals and tests carried out by other practitioners, and should be capable of being understood by any other therapist taking over or assisting in the care of the client.
Important Notes
6.1 It is the responsibility of the practicing A/T to observe any local bylaws with regard to the therapy undertaken. All necessary legal (pharmaceutical and cosmetic) requirements must be compiled with in regard to all materials used and stored, purchased complete, or assembled and labeled on the practice premises.
6.2 Members must be wary of giving advice on skin and bodily ailments, diet, etc., and are expected not to presume a specialists knowledge outside the limitations of their own specialized knowledge. It is the responsibility of a practicing Aromatherapist to bear in mind his/her own standard of training and level of knowledge, plus any insurance parameters when deciding how the essential oils are to be used for each individual client.
Liason with Other Professions
Liasing with the client’s doctor may increase better understanding between individual aromatherapists and their local doctors. Gradually, if contact can be established with a number of practitioners in various spheres, eg: dermatology, homeopathy, dietetics, reflexology, acupuncture, etc., client’s conditions may be greatly assisted, the standard of Aromatherapy enhanced, and more satisfactory conclusions attained.
Many doctors are co-operative if asked if they would be agreeable to receiving referrals, and every such liason serves to strengthen the ideals which we seek to achieve.
By lecturing to other professional bodies and by increasing contact, greater awareness of aromatherapy aims and objectives can be communicated.