Nail salon workers and chemical exposure

榮 Nail Salon Workers and Dangerous Chemical Exposure What Nail Salon Workers Don't know about The Risks of Chemical Exposure A manicure or pedicure is a popular way to relax and enjoy some much-needed pampering. The nail salon industry continues to grow despite economic setbacks in some other areas of luxury service. According to estimates, approximately 350,000 American workers are employed in nail salons. Many of these employees are exposed to hazardous chemicals on the job Dangerous materials in nail salons Nail salon employees face daily exposure to a wide range of materials with possible effects on the musculoskeletal, respiratory and neurological systems. These potential pathogens include the following: Acrylates Nail polishes and lacquers Solvents Biocides and Acrylic dust and other particulate matter fungicides A typical nail salon employee may come into contact with all of these substances in a single day's work. Salon work is associated with a higher risk of illness Salon workers spend many hours a day in close proximity to these hazardous chemicals. They generally work on specialized Nail salon employees face a dangerous tables that place the client's hands or feet directly in the employee's breathing zone. level of occupational exposure to di-n-butyl phthalate, a possible carcinogen found in nail products. These exposure levels may lead to higher long-term risks of occupational illness. Salons are often poorly ventilated. Extra hazards for women CDC statistics show that g6% of the current salon workforce is made up of women. Female workers have a higher average level of body fat than men, leading to increased buildup of toxic substances in body tissues. Many female salon professionals also continue to work during pregnancy and lactation, putting their children at risk of hazardous chemical exposure. Keeping salon employees safer The National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health has outlined basic safety measures to help keep salon employees safer on the job. These measures include: ergonomic wwork tables with increased airflow dispensers for volatile liquids better availability of better gloves secure consistent use of long sleeves containers ventilation in salons NIOSH also offers patterns for affordable improvements in salon equipment. Rewards and dangers of salon employment Salon work can be rewarding and profitable. But it can also be a health hazard if materials are not handled correctly. Nail technicians who have suffered possible chemical exposure on the job may find it useful to meet with a personal injury lawyer. OUR LOCATION: Sheldon I.Minkow AA &Associates, P.C.10 S. LaSalle O Website:www.chicagoaccidentattorneys. SHELDON I. MINKOW com/ & ASSOCIATES, P.C. Suite 3300 Chicago, IL 60603 B Blog:http://www.chicagoaccidentattorne ys.com/blog/nail-salon-workers-chemica l-exposure/ Phone: (312) 704-8008 Infographic by Market JD www.marketjd.com