ACCIDENT PREVENTION STRATEGIES
per hour), and whenever possible, let in fresh air through open doors and windows. For salons that use ventilated tables, it is important to ensure proper upkeep, such as changing out the charcoal filters once a month and cleaning the catch basins once a week. Ventilation can reduce exposure to hazardous chemicals by over 50%, so is well worth any extra effort, noise, or expense. Identifying and labeling chemicals Another accident prevention strategy to ensure environmental health within your salon is ensuring all chemicals are properly labelled and sealed . Even discarded products left in trash cans can evaporate and contaminate the air, so it is best to always use metal trash cans with tight, self- closing lids or place chemical-soiled products into a sealed bag before disposing them. Be sure to empty trashcans often and reduce waste by only using the amount of product you need to perform services. When disposing of used chemicals, never pour them down the sink, toilet, or drains, or pour them onto cotton balls. Instead, follow the proper safety instructions for disposal. This will not only help keep everyone in the salon safe, but also reduces the risk for garbage and sanitation workers after the waste is removed from the salon. Limiting chemical exposure One of the most important accident prevent strategies when dealing with any chemical is to frequently wash your hands, especially before eating, drinking, applying cosmetics, and smoking, and never store food or drinks in your work area . It is important to reduce contact between your hands and your skin and eyes whenever possible. In addition, wearing long- sleeved shirts and other protective clothing and equipment such as safety gloves and goggles can further reduce the risk of coming into contact with chemicals and hazardous materials. Immediately replace any damaged protective equipment and ensure that you cover and cuts, scrapes, or damaged skin. Any breaks or damage to the skin provides for quicker absorption of any chemicals or hazardous materials. Limiting Chemical Exposure • Use less toxic, safer, natural products. • Use pumps instead of aerosol containers. • Use products with low volatile organic compound content. • Use non-toxic products for disinfecting and cleaning.
Response plans are important, but just as important are accident prevention strategies. To prevent exposure and protect staff and client health, employers and workers can take standard precautionary steps whenever they use hazardous products and chemicals. Using safer product alternatives Whenever feasible, use a safer product alternative instead of a product with known harmful chemical ingredients . You should not only be aware of the levels of hazardous chemicals in the products you use, but also make every attempt to use products with the least amount of hazardous chemicals in them. Today, there are many alternatives, such as “3-free” products: those products that do not use what is referred to as the “toxic trio” (toluene, formaldehyde, and dibutyl phthalate). It is also possible to buy “acid free” products, to ensure that there is no exposure to chemicals such as methacrylic acid. However, even when using products that claim to be less hazardous, be sure to read all manufacturers’ instructions and conduct adequate research on the safety and environmental impact of the product. The United Stated Environmental Protection agency has made strides in helping salons and other consumers easily finds safer products. They have implemented Safer Choice labels to identify quality performance products with safer chemical ingredients. Previously known as Design for the Environment or “DfE” label, today more than 2,000 products qualify to carry the Safer Choice label. These products range from cleaners to colorants, fragrances, and more and incorporate the Safer Choice Standard and Safe Chemical Ingredients Criteria that address a broad range of potential toxicological effects. Whenever possible, using these products can help to lessen the potential effects of the chemicals that are used in the salon and provide a safer substitution for clients and professionals. Ensuring proper ventilation The best way to reduce the level of hazardous materials and chemicals in the air is to ensure proper ventilation . Without proper ventilation, pollutants can accumulate to levels that can pose health and comfort problems. Make sure your salon’s ventilation and exhaust system is always on. In the case that there is no exhaust system, be sure that the heating and air condition is on during all work hours and consider installing exhaust fans near open doors or window to pull in fresh air and push out contaminated air. Ensure enough air is circulating to clear hazardous fumes from the air (six to ten fresh air changes
TREATING CHEMICAL BURNS
Most chemical burns within the salon setting will be first-degree burns, meaning that they only involve the top layer of skin. These burns will be red, painful to the touch, and will show mild swelling. Applying a cool, wet compress or submerging in cool, clean water until the pain subsides can help to treat first- degree burns. Following this, cover the burned area with a sterile, non-adhesive bandage; but never apply ointments or butter to burns, as these can cause infection and increased damaged to the area and overall health of the burned individual. First-degree burns generally heal without further treatment, but over-the- counter pain medication may be useful in relieving pain and inflammation. Seek emergency medical attention for more severe burns or anytime the burn victim is an infant or elderly.
Despite the best accident prevention strategies, accidents still can and do occur. In the salon setting, some of the most common accidents, or even skin allergies and sensitivities, can result in chemical burns . Therefore, it is important to know the steps to take to treat them. It is important to administer first aid within the first few minutes following a chemical burn, as this can make a significant difference in the severity of the injury. Remove any clothing that is contaminated by the chemical. If the clothing adheres to the skin, cut or tear around the burned area. Also, be sure to remove any tight garments or jewelry in contact with the burned area, as these areas will begin to swell immediately and can make it harder to remove items as time passes. Pay close attention to the neck and throat if these areas are affected, as tight or constraining articles of clothing or jewelry can restrict the airways and hinder breathing. Conclusion Despite it being a relaxing and calming place, there are perils located in every salon. As a certified cosmetologist, it is your responsibility to educate yourself on these perils and techniques to mitigate dangers and respond appropriately when accidents occur. Your clients have the right to a safe and hazard- free salon environment, and your participation is required to ensure
that this right is fulfilled. Your clients depend on you for their cosmetic needs, be sure they can depend on you for their safety as well. You can play an active role in addressing the environmental issues and reducing environmental risk for both your clients and yourself.
Book Code: NTFL1024
Page 38
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