OSHA Nail Salon Workers Guide

Introduction

• Adapted from "Stay Healthy and Safe While Giving Manicures and Pedicures."
• Developed by the Labor Occupational Health Program (University of California) and California Healthy Nail Salon Collaborative.
• Produced through the Susan Harwood Grant Program, U.S. Department of Labor.
• Photos by Asian Law Caucus, Boston Public Health Commission, etc.

Purpose of the Guide

• Identify hazards in nail salons.
• Promote safe work practices to protect against chemical hazards, muscle strains, and diseases.
• Explain workers' rights.

Contents Overview

• Chemical Hazards: Identification and mitigation.
• Preventing Aches and Pains: Ergonomic solutions.
• Biological Hazards: Infection prevention.
• Workers' Rights: Understanding your rights.
• Resources: Additional information and contacts.

Chemical Hazards

• Products contain harmful chemicals; exposure can be through inhalation, skin contact, or ingestion.
• Exposures can cause immediate or long-term health issues.
• Chemicals include:
  • Acetone: Causes headaches, dizziness.
  • Formaldehyde: Can cause asthma-like attacks; carcinogenic.
  • Toluene: Damages skin; affects liver and kidneys.
• Tips for health protection:
  • Choose safer products (e.g., 3-free or acid-free).
  • Ensure proper ventilation.
  • Use safe handling and disposal practices.

Material Safety Data Sheets (MSDS)

• Mandated by OSHA for products with hazardous chemicals.
• Provide details on ingredients, risks, and safe usage.
• Transitioning to Safety Data Sheets (SDS) for standardized information.

Preventing Aches and Pains

• Common issues from repetitive tasks and poor posture.
• Recommendations:
  • Use adjustable chairs and proper lighting.
  • Employ ergonomic tools and cushions.
  • Perform stretching exercises regularly.

Biological Hazards

• Risks include exposure to bacteria, fungi, and viruses (e.g., Hepatitis, HIV).
• Protective steps:
  • Avoid contact with blood or bodily fluids.
  • Wear gloves and bandage any cuts.
  • Disinfect tools and foot basins regularly.

Workers' Rights

• Differences between employees and independent contractors.
  • Misclassification can affect safety and benefits.
• Rights include safe working conditions and the ability to report hazards.
• OSHA provides resources and rights protection.

Contact Information

• OSHA website: www.osha.gov
• Phone: 1-800-321-OSHA (6742)

Additional Resources

• Detailed resources on chemical exposures, ergonomic hazards, and biological hazards.
• Information on OSHA and NIOSH programs for workplace safety evaluation.