in heavy fines and even salon closures. Employers have a responsibility to provide a place of employment free OSHA and the salon OSHA has not formulated any rules and regulations that deal specifically with the cosmetology industry. While no specific rules exist, cosmetologists are expected to abide by basic rules contained within the Code of Federal Regulations (29 CFR) which refer to workplace safety and health. These rules describe the responsibilities of employers and employees when handling hazardous chemicals, as well as the use of personal protective equipment (PPE), proper ventilation, prevention from overexposure to dust, and overall health and safety plans. All regulations for general industry (Standards – 29 CFR, can be found at the following web address: https://www.osha.gov/pls/oshaweb/owasrch.search_form?p_ doc_type=STANDARDS&p_toc_lev el=1&p_keyvalue=1910. OSHA provides guidelines to help keep workers safe in various settings, including the salon. In many cases, they provide information on good work practices that should be used to protect workers and guests from chemical hazards, muscle strains, and diseases. Often overlooked but very
from recognized hazards that are causing or are likely to cause death or serious physical harm.
common in the salon setting are the hazards that can cause aches and pains that can eventually result in significant injury. For instance, aches and pains can result from leaning over a worktable too long – a common concern for cosmetologists working in nail salons – or repetitive movements like cutting hair, applying cosmetics, and resting hands, wrists, and forearms and/or elbows against hard surfaces or sharp edges of worktables. These types of hazards are referred to as ergonomic or musculoskeletal hazards, and they impact the functioning and health of muscles and bones. In order to reduce these risks, salon owners and workers can practice ergonomics, or the science of fitting the task to the worker. This can make cosmetology techniques more comfortable and more efficient and can take the strain out of some procedures. By utilizing good ergonomic practices, you can reduce stress on your body and prevent ailments resulting from improper positioning of your body. Some good ergonomic practices are included in the following chart.
Good Ergonomic Practices for Reducing Hazards
When Sitting…
When Standing…
Use an adjustable chair and pay attention to your posture at all times. Be sure to sit with your back supported and feet flat on the floor. If necessary, use a footrest to ensure your feet reach the floor. If working at a table, place a towel or foam pad on the edge in order to cushion the impact to your wrists, elbows, and hands. Never sit with the back of your knees flush to your chair. This will improve the blood flow to your legs.
Raise your guest to a level that is comfortable to reach so you do not place strain on your extremities or bend your back to reach them. If working with hands or feet, you can also use a cushion to raise their extremities and maintain proper posture. Adjust the lighting or use safety glasses with magnifying lenses so that you do not have to strain your eyes or bend over to reach your guest.
Always wear comfortable shoes that provide arch support.
In General… Changing your position can be helpful to ward off strains. Take frequent breaks or switch between repetitive tasks whenever possible. You can do gentle stretching exercises in between clients to relieve stress on muscles. Pace yourself. Working too fast can cause your body to become tense and result in muscle pains. Keep your arms and shoulders loose. Tilting your head to each side for a few seconds at a time can help to relieve neck stress and tension. Organize your work area in a way that makes equipment and materials easy to access without causing unnecessary bending, reaching, or twisting. Pay attention to the way you move and position your body. For example, when lifting any item of weight, make sure to support the weight with your legs, rather than your back. Try to keep your wrists straight, rather than repetitive bending. No matter what task you are doing, always listen to your body. If a technique is causing you pain, try to find a way to adjust your posture or positioning to more easily accomplish the task. Employer responsibilities
conform to OSHA standards, and all employees must have access to and training on the safe operation of tools, products, and equipment. When applicable, safety training should be delivered in a language that can be understood by all workers. Keep this in mind when working with employees that may speak languages other than your own. Ensure that all workers understand the vocabulary used.
While you can play a part in protecting your own health within the salon setting, employers must provide you with a safe operating environment. There are key responsibilities for employers that can make a difference for everyone working within or visiting the salon. For example, under OSH law, employers are responsible for complying with all OSHA standards and rules in order to provide a workplace that is safe and free from recognized and preventable harm . All workplace conditions and standard operating procedures must
The federal government requires that product manufacturers make the safety data sheets (SDS) available to their employees and customers.
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