Another chemical that is frequently found in salons is Toluene . Toluene is a very common chemical found in many polishes and cosmetics. A petroleum-based by-product, it is a harmful neurotoxin which can cause dry or cracked skin; headaches, dizziness, and numbness. Not only can Toluene irritate the eyes, nose, throat, and lungs and cause damage to the liver and kidneys, but also can affect the function of the brain and central nervous system. It can also pose implications for the healthy development of children. It is critical that every product in the salon is handled with care. Know what you are working with. If you are not sure about the chemical makeup and effects of any product, approach it with the utmost care, taking into consideration all of the safety and precaution tips and tools available to you. Sample Safety Data Sheet
warnings; health and safety risks; precautions for use and storage; and emergency response information. As a licensed cosmetologist, you should read and become familiar with each Safety Data Sheet and be sure that you understand and retain the information included. For managing cosmetologists, it is also important to ensure that all workers have access to - and training on - the Safety Data Sheets, the potential hazards of each product, and proper and safe usage. One of the most commonly used chemicals in the salon setting is formaldehyde (also called formalin or methylene glycol). The same chemical that is used in embalming fluid, formaldehyde is a preservation fluid that is recognized by the National Cancer Institute as a cancer causing agent . It is present in most of the products you use every day, and is the base ingredient in many beauty products, including nail polishes, glues, chemical hair treatments, lotions, shampoos, cosmetics, and more. The majority of salons use - and store - a multitude of products that contain formaldehyde. This poses serious threats to the environment and personal health of everyone at the salon. Not only can Formaldehyde cause cancer, but recent studies show that many salon products, such as hair straightening products, contain enough of this chemical to be hazardous to workers who use the produce once or more daily . Most salon workers handle products containing formaldehyde multiple times throughout the day and are in the presence of coworkers doing the same, compounding this threat. Synonyms for Chemicals that “Act Like” Formaldehyde
• Formalin • Methanal • Oxymethyline • Urea • 1,3-Dioxetane • Quaternium 15
• Methylaldehyde • Methylene Oxide • Formic Aldehyde
• Oxomethane Formalin • Phenol Formaldehyde
Despite the dangers, some products containing formaldehyde neglect to list the ingredient on their Safety Data Sheets and product labels or use synonyms for the chemical so as not to alarm consumers. The chart provided identifies synonyms for chemicals very similar in makeup to formaldehyde that don’t call as much attention as the more popularly known name.
BEST PRACTICES IN CHEMICAL MANAGEMENT
● Maintaining a five-year history of any accidents that have taken place onsite. ● Emergency planning response actions with local response agencies (i.e., hospitals, law enforcement, etc.). ● Development of and training on a written Risk Management Plan. While the quantities of hazardous materials in a salon do not make these requirements, they are still considered best practices and whenever possible should be incorporated in any organization that works with chemicals and hazardous materials. Even if not formally developed, these are great discussion points to have within your salon that could help lessen the effects of accidents. It is important to compile safety information about the chemicals and equipment used in your salon along with safe operating procedures . Ensure that all staff is fully trained on this information and any safety measures that could impact the work. Furthermore, anytime an accident does occur, all salon staff should be informed of the accident, the steps taken leading to the accident, and any lessons learned as a result.
The United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) influences laws and regulations and sets policy in regard to a variety of environmental issues, including the cleanup and disposal of chemical and hazardous waste. In the salon setting, there are many hazardous chemicals that cosmetologists and their clients come into contact with, so it is important to know not only how to handle and dispose of these materials, but also how to prevent chemical accidents. Chemical accidents can result in property damage, injuries and hospitalizations, and even death. Therefore, it is a priority and responsibility for the salon professional to know and follow all chemical accident prevention practices and protocols in order to keep themselves, their clients, and their businesses safe. For organizations that house large quantities of chemicals, there are specific requirements that must be adhered to, including the following best practices in chemical management: Best practices in chemical management ● Assessing worst-case scenarios in order to mitigate and prevent potential effects.
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Book Code: NTFL1024
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