The health risks associated in working with nail treatments, including the chemicals used in those treatments is well-documented, and a number of countries have produced specific guidance for nail salons.
In the UK employers are bound by the Health & Safety at Work Act to provide a safe working environment for their employees. There are two further documents providing guidance and recommendations for nail treatment services specifically for salons:
1) HSE SR13 COSHH Essentials for Service 7 Retail – Nail Bars.
2) Habia - Code of Practice for Nail Services
COMMON ADVICE BY LOCAL AUTHORITIES IN THE UK:
Use ventilated tables that exhaust to the outside. Ventilated tables should have close fitting filters, which must be replaced according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Ventilated tables reduce dust and chemicals in the air.
Any ventilation equipment provided must be maintained in good working order to ensure that it remains effective.
You should ensure that ventilation systems that exhaust to outside do not cause a nuisance to your neighbours. Make sure the general ventilation in your salon is adequate.
General ventilation is best if you have through ventilation from the front to the back of the premises. This reduces the amount of chemicals in the air.
THE ROLE OF LOCAL AUTHORITIES IN THE UK
Local authorities have a duty under the Local Government Act to licence and inspect and then set standards for premises and operators of massage and special treatments. This includes nail treatment salons. As a result the majority of local authorities in the UK have written additional guidance for nail salons, with local environmental health officers charged with the task of visiting salons to check that they comply with the guidance given. Failure to comply can result in an ‘Improvement Notice’ being served, with the salon owner given a period of time in which to rectify the situation or face closure.
Below are documents already issued by local authorities in the UK. The 'Useful Links' page includes other local authorities with links to their websites.
