(1) Applicants for licensure of a salon, shop, mobile salon or shop, or school may submit a variance request from licensing requirements related to safety and sanitation on forms provided by the department. Completed variance requests include appropriate fees and required documentation. The board may only grant a variance from requirements of the safety and sanitation rules upon the board's determination that:

(a) special conditions exist which preclude strict compliance with the rules; and

(b) alternative measures will provide adequate public health and safety protection.