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It is vital that safe working procedures are enforced so that risks to employees and customers health are reduced. CoSHH regulations should be strictly enforced and risk assessments carried out on all chemicals.
Some ingredients in beauty and cleaning products such as solvents in nail polish removers can irritate the skin and lead to dermatitis.
Contact with blood and tissue residues from piercing or tattooing can lead to infection.
This article however, seeks to examine the health risks associated with cosmetic procedures to nails.
Certain ingredients used in acrylic liquids and powders can result in skin allergies and asthma.
It is also possible to contract bacterial, viral and fungal infections when creating acrylic nails.
The dust filings from artificial nails can cause wheezing, chest tightness and asthma and the acrylic fumes can cause headaches, dizziness and nausea.
There are certain rules which should be followed to reduce the hazards:
Do not allow eating, drinking or smoking within the salon.
Treat the nail area with respect so as to decrease the likelihood of infection.
Make sure that employees and clients wash their hands following a cosmetic procedure.
Ensure that CoSHH safety data sheets are available for each chemical used and follow through with CoSHH task based risk assessments.
Follow manufacturer's instructions with regard to PPE, such as using masks or gloves.
Keep the workplace well ventilated, using ventilated tables if possible.
Ensure that any substances being used are kept in closed, marked containers to reduce the amount of chemicals in the air.
Equipment such as nail files, which have direct contact with the skin, should preferably be single usage or sterilized between clients. This will reduce the risk of infection.
Ensure after using any materials which have been in contact with acrylic that they are sealed in a bag before disposal. This also applies to any other materials affected by chemicals such as cotton wool etc. This will help to reduce the amount of chemicals in the air.
Client's details should be recorded and procedures may not be performed if the following are relevant:
The client has had previous skin conditions such as dermatitis, eczema or sensitive skin
The client has any allergies
The client has poor skin or the nail is not in good condition
The client has an existing medical condition or is pregnant.
Employees should also report if they suffer any allergies or become sensitized.
It is essential that employees are kept informed and well trained in CoSHH legislation and they should form an integral part of the risk assessment process.
