Enhancing Health and Safety in Nail Salons: A Guide to Managing Chemical Exposure

Nail salons are essential hubs for beauty and personal care, but the use of various chemicals in nail care products poses potential health risks to both employees and customers. In response to these concerns, a recent circular from the Ministry of Manpower (MOM) and the Occupational Safety and Health Division (OSHD) provides comprehensive guidelines to help nail salons mitigate these risks and ensure a safer environment.

Understanding Chemical Risks in Nail Salons

Nail care products, such as nail polishes, glues, and removers, often contain chemicals that can be harmful. Common hazardous chemicals include formaldehyde, toluene, and xylene. Exposure to these substances can occur through inhalation of volatile organic compounds (VOCs), contact with skin and eyes, or ingestion through contaminated food and drinks. For example, formaldehyde exposure may lead to respiratory irritations, allergic reactions, and long-term health issues like cancer.

Ensuring Product Compliance

To safeguard health, nail salons must:

• Verify Product Safety: Ensure that all nail care products are notified with the Health Sciences Authority (HSA). Use HSA’s Infosearch tool to confirm compliance with safety regulations and check that products do not contain prohibited chemicals or exceed allowed concentrations. For instance, formaldehyde is banned in all cosmetic products, while toluene is restricted to a maximum concentration of 25%.
• Ensure Proper Labeling: Products must list all ingredients on their labels. If a product contains formaldehyde-releasing preservatives (e.g., DMDM hydantoin), it should be clearly labeled to warn users. Non-compliance with these labeling requirements can result in significant penalties, including fines and imprisonment.

Selecting Safer Alternatives

Minimize chemical exposure by opting for water-based products or those with low VOC content. This simple switch can greatly reduce the risk of harmful emissions in the salon environment.

Adopting Safe Work Practices

Nail salon operators should:

• Educate Employees: Inform staff about the potential hazards of nail care chemicals and encourage them to use safe work practices. This includes keeping dispensers closed when not in use, cleaning spills promptly, and using only the necessary amount of product to reduce airborne chemicals.
• Use Personal Protective Equipment (PPE): Provide appropriate PPE, such as gloves and goggles, based on product safety information and labels.

Maintaining Good Ventilation and Air Quality

Proper ventilation is crucial for minimizing chemical exposure:

• Ventilation Systems: Ensure that the salon’s air-conditioning and mechanical ventilation systems are functioning correctly and provide outdoor air.
• Air Exchange: In spaces without outdoor air supply, consider opening windows and doors when feasible. Use local exhaust systems like portable ventilation machines or ventilated tables to reduce VOC levels.
• Indoor Air Quality: Adhere to the advisory limits for specific VOCs as outlined in the Singapore Standard SS554: Code of Practice for Indoor Air Quality for Air-Conditioned Buildings.

Additional Resources

For further information on managing chemical safety in nail salons, consider the following resources:

1. Stay Healthy and Safe While Giving Manicures and Pedicures – A Guide for Nail Salon Workers by the U.S. Department of Labor, Occupational Safety and Health Administration.
2. Controlling Chemical Hazards During the Application of Artificial Fingernails by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health.
3. Information Sheet: Taking Care of Your Chemical Health and Safety in Nail Bars and Salons by the Health and Safety Authority, Ireland.

By following these guidelines, nail salons can enhance the safety of their employees and customers, ensuring a healthier and more compliant operation.

References: 

https://www.mom.gov.sg/-/media/mom/documents/safety-health/circulars/2024/circular-20240730-protecting-employees-customers-health-chemicals-nail-salons.pdf